A New Chapter for Woodchurch Wine Estate: Four Friends Take the Helm of Award-Winning Kent Vineyard 03, Apr 2026
Woodchurch Wine Estate, the multi-award-winning producer of English sparkling and
still wines, is proud to announce a change in ownership. Four friends - two
husband-and-wife teams, Kelly and John Smith and Donna and Darren Worsley,
have become the new guardians of the estate, bringing fresh energy and a shared
passion for great wine.
Kent locals at heart, their professional backgrounds span cutting-edge technology,
legal practice, automotive engineering, and food and product innovation. What
began as a shared love of exploring Kent's wine scene together quietly grew into
something more - they were inspired to transition from enthusiasts to stewards,
taking over the estate to write its next chapter.
"What started as four friends touring Kentish vineyards, glass in hand, became a
calling to build something we could see, touch, and taste - rooted in the land and
shaped by craft." says Donna.
Founded in 2009, Woodchurch Wine Estate has grown from south-facing Kentish
farmland into a premier wine destination. Its beautiful tasting room and exceptional
wines have earned gold medals from Wine GB, Decanter, the International Wine
Challenge, and the Independent English Wine Awards - a true reflection of the
unique terroir of the Kentish landscape.
Rooted in community, driven by innovation
The new team is committed to honouring that legacy while introducing fresh offerings
- from regular food designed to complement the wines and a new summer events
calendar, to community and business partnerships that make English wine more
accessible. The team also plans to expand the Wine Club and innovate with exciting
new product additions.
"Family and friendship are our foundation. Our goal is to keep learning and
innovating, ensuring Woodchurch remains a place where great wine and great
memories are made." adds Kelly.