An Earsham vineyard hoping to boost East Anglia’s reputation as a wine-growing region has opened its doors for the first time.

Beccles & Bungay Journal: Flint Vineyard has released its first two winesFlint Vineyard has released its first two wines (Image: Archant)

Flint Vineyard has been researching the Bacchus grape, and sparked interest across the country in the process.

Owners Ben and Hannah Witchell have spent the last year installing a state-of-the-art winery, producing their first vintage and transforming barns into a tasting room.

And now, Flint is launching its first wines as it invites visitors to come and see the vineyard for themselves.

Mr Witchell said: “I had two ambitions for my wines, firstly that they could compete at an international level to showcase English still wines and secondly that I would make a wine that I enjoyed drinking myself – and honestly, I love drinking these wines.

“I can’t wait to open our doors to show visitors how seriously we are taking wine production here in East Anglia.”

Mr and Mrs Witchell will lead the two-hour tours which will show off the vineyards, with views over Earsham and Bungay, provide an explanation of the winemaking process and equipment and a tutored tasting of Flint Vineyard’s 2016 vintage in the tasting room.

Flint Vineyard is waiting for the first crop from its own vines in 2019, but is working with growers in Essex to source grapes which mirror the varieties they have planted in Bungay.

Earlier this year, Flint Vineyard launched the VENN Club, a members club named after its logo and has nearly filled the 100 places available this year.

Membership includes access to wines made exclusively for members in ultra-low volumes and complimentary tours and tasting for members and their friends.

The first two wines from Flint Vineyard - a Bacchus and a Pinot Blanc fermented partially in oak barrels were released last week. Flint Vineyard Bacchus 2016 (£15) and Flint Vineyard Pinot Blanc 2016 (£17) are available at the cellar door, online at www.flintvineyard.com or by calling the vineyard on 01986 893209.Guided tours are available every Wednesday and Saturday at 10am and booking is essential.Are you setting up a business in Waveney? Email the details to bbj.news@archant.co.uk.