Plumpton College Wine Division ★ 4.9
The wine division at Plumpton runs degrees, apprenticeships and the National Wine Training Programme from a commercial winery, research winery and sensory room.
Tastings, courses and structured sessions in Sussex that teach you the region in a glass.
Classes worth booking
Sussex Wine School ★ 4.5
Brighton wine school run by Jonathan Gibson within the Local Wine School network, teaching WSET Levels 1 to 3 plus Wine Scholar Guild regional courses.
Ten Green Bottles Wine Masterclasses ★ 4.3
Weekend masterclasses and private tastings run inside the Jubilee Street bar, taught from the same small-grower list sold across the counter.
Fourth and Church Tasting Room ★ 4.4
Private tasting sessions led by WSET Level 3 graduate Anna in the room behind the Hove shop, covering Burgundy, Piedmont, orange wine and sherry.
Wine Schools in Sussex, FAQ
When is the best time to visit Sussex for wine?
Peak wine-travel season in Sussex is spring through autumn, with harvest the standout window.
Do I need an appointment to taste at Sussex estates?
classified-growth and grand-cru estates require booking days to weeks ahead; smaller family domaines often take walk-ins midweek.
What hours do Sussex cellars and tasting rooms keep?
most estates open 10:00 to 17:00 by appointment, often closed Sunday and Monday.
How does tipping work at Sussex tastings?
tipping is not expected at tastings; buying a bottle from the cellar door is the customary thank-you.
What is the one wine to try in Sussex?
Ask the next local you meet what they would order. Sussex rewards trust.