Confirm your age
Please verify that you are 18 years of age or older to enter this site.
— The Compelling Story
A living legacy, rooted in Sussex soil
Nestled in the heart of the English countryside, our vineyards represent more than cultivated land they embody a living legacy, a testament to the enduring spirit of those who honour the soil and cherish the vine. Leonardslee Family Vineyards cultivates exceptional, estate-produced English sparkling wines and a sustainable legacy on the historic Leonardslee Estate.
In 2016, the Streeter family acquired the historic Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens, undertaking the largest garden renovation seen in Europe in the last thirty years. Their commitment to sustainability and restoration revitalised the Grade I listed gardens, which are once again open to the public. Where Victorian plant collectors once proved the soil could grow the finest rhododendrons in England, the family wagered it could grow exceptional grapes too.
The Label Studio Parr
"The swallow ends its long journey from Africa here in Sussex much like Penny herself."
— A Bottle That Tells a Story
The swallow, and the journey it traces
The Leonardslee Family Vineyard label encapsulates the extraordinary journey of its owner, Penny Streeter OBE from humble beginnings to creating a prestigious English sparkling wine. Once living in homeless accommodation, Penny's story is a modern-day Cinderella tale.
Designed by local Sussex artist Will Parr of Studio Parr, the label depicts a swallow which signifies Penny's migration between South Africa and England emblematic of her resilience and determination. Four smaller swallows represent Penny's four children, with flight lines tracing the South Downs. The shades of blue and copper are lifted directly from the blue swallow itself.
The Journey, In Brief
From a South African lagoon to a Sussex valley
2013 — Benguela Cove
Penny Streeter acquires the coastal wine estate at Walker Bay, Hermanus the family's first chapter in wine, and the home of winemaker Johann Fourie.
2016 — Mannings Heath
The Streeters acquire Mannings Heath Golf Club near Horsham, with a vision of bringing a South African-style wine destination to the UK.
2017–18 — The First Vines
38 Acres of sparkling varietals planted across the estates including England's first commercial planting of Pinotage. Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens joins the portfolio.
2019 — The Gardens Reopen
After the most extensive garden restoration in England in thirty years, the Grade I listed gardens reopen to the public.
2020 — First Harvest
A "textbook" growing season delivers the maiden harvest from the estate's own fruit.
2024 — Maiden Vintages
The first wines are released Blanc de Blancs 2020, Brut Reserve 2021 and Brut Rosé 2021 all grown and made on the estate.
-
We welcome you to Leonardslee to enjoy a glass of Sussex and take part in my family's vision for the future of sparkling wine.
Penny Streeter OBE Founder
English sparkling wine grown on the ancient Wealden soils of West Sussex. Estate grown, estate made. An award-winning debut in the World's 50 Best Vineyards 2025.
English sparkling wine grown on the ancient Wealden soils of West Sussex. Estate grown, estate made. An award-winning debut in the World's 50 Best Vineyards 2025.