Nestled in the rolling countryside of the Surrey Hills, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, you will find Albury Vineyard. This family-run, fully biodynamic vineyard specialises in the small production of the highest quality organic and sustainable English wines, which perfectly reflect the terroir of the area. Albury Vineyard is a member of the Vineyards of the Surrey Hills, a collective of premier English wine producers who are putting the region on the map as a must-visit wine destination.
It’s hard to believe this idyllic, hidden gem is just 30 miles from London. Peaceful, surrounded by nature, and completely unhurried, it offers visitors a real epicurean treat (and retreat) that is a world away from the bustle of city life.
Unique Wine and Food Experiences That Tell a Story
Already renowned for its tours, tastings and pairings, Albury has expanded its gastronomic offering by collaborating with London and Surrey private chef Renu Ballantine (Chef Renu B). Renu, a long-time fan of English wine and a member of Albury’s Wine Club, is bringing an extra culinary dimension and making the vineyard a new destination for gourmands seeking a highly curated, high-end yet relaxed dining experience in a spectacular location for their private events. Renu, once an engineer and now a rising star on the private dining scene, has become something of a ‘resident chef’ for Albury, creating bespoke menus for a variety of occasions from corporate dos and intimate wedding receptions to birthday celebrations and team building events. Albury Vineyard and Chef Renu B offer the perfect combination of fine wine and exceptional food in the bucolic setting of the Surrey Hills; all just a stone’s throw from London.
“Food has always played a big role in how we showcase our wines. We know wine tastes even better when it’s part of a shared meal or experience,” said Nick Wenman, Owner at Albury Vineyard.
“Renu knows our wines inside out and matches them beautifully to her menus. She has a great understanding of flavour and how to complement different wines. The feedback from guests has been consistently brilliant – not just about the food, but also her professionalism, attention to detail and the way she creates a warm, polished experience. It’s been a great fit for us. We’re not aiming to be a restaurant, but we do want to offer those standout moments – a beautifully curated dinner, a special pop-up, something that lingers in people’s memories. It’s a lovely setting, especially in the evening and provides a chance for guests to enjoy an exceptional food and wine experience in a relaxed, exclusive location.”
An Evening Amongst the Vines for a Corporate Event
Albury recently played host to an exclusive six-course al fresco dinner for 14 by the vines (the bijou tasting room overlooking the vineyard is available for less clement weather). Chef Renu B created a stunning English summer menu celebrating local produce and seasonal flavours, including canapés such as goat’s cheese and fig croustades, saffron arancini with chilled gazpacho, salmon and asparagus terrine, and chicken, balsamic onion, and sweet potato pithivier. A dessert of rose and lemon Eton mess, and, finally, fine English cheeses rounded off the culinary journey. Each dish was expertly paired with one of the vineyard’s wines, including its flagship Silent Pool Rosé, the marque sparkling (Albury Estate Prestige Cuvée 2020), and its Vermouth Rosso.
“We really loved your food and the dining experience – it made for a very special event. Thanks for all your hard work,” Marc Cornelius, Founder & CEO of 8020 Communications.
Planning a birthday celebration, a special gathering with friends and family, or a corporate evening? Albury Vineyard can work with Chef Renu B, who can create something truly bespoke, including vegan, vegetarian and free-from options.
For enquiries, visit: https://www.chefrenub.com/
