Producer Profile
Bee Tree by Sugrue
East Sussex, England
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Bee Tree by Sugrue
East Sussex, England
By one of the finest winemaker in the English wine scene.
Bee Tree Vineyard, the latest addition to the Sugrue family portfolio, marks an exciting chapter in Dermot Sugrue’s journey as one of Britain’s most impactful and finest winemakers. Irish-born Dermot has long been at the forefront of England’s wine scene, earning acclaim for his award-winning creations at Nyetimber, Wiston Estate, and his Sugrue South Downs. Established in 2006, Sugrue South Downs spans three vineyard sites across East and West Sussex, including the historic Mount Harry Vineyard near Lewes and Coldharbour Vineyard. Bee Tree Vineyard, acquired in 2023 and located in Wivelsfield Green, adds a distinctive terroir to the estate, further elevating the Sugrue legacy.
Location: East Sussex, England
Total area under vine: 1.35 hectares
Viticultural standards: Farmed organically
Working with us since: 2024
Website: https://beetreevineyard.co.uk/
Interesting fact: Bee Tree Vineyard takes its name from a real ancient beehive within a neighbouring tree. This living symbol of biodiversity represents the Sugrues’ dedication to nurturing the environment, blending tradition with forward-thinking sustainability.
Bee Tree by Sugrue’s wines
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Sugrue Bonkers MV Chardonnay
£28.50
Originally planted in 2015 by Darcy and James, Bee Tree Vineyard was envisioned as a seamless extension of the lush Sussex countryside. Its name was inspired by a natural beehive nestled in a nearby tree, a fitting symbol for a vineyard surrounded by ancient woodland, teeming with wildlife. Dermot describes the environment as “near-transcendental,” capturing the vineyard’s harmony with nature and the Sugrues’ commitment to biodiversity and sustainable farming.
Terroir and Viticulture
Unlike the common soil type, Chalk soil, found in the region, Bee Tree’s clay-rich soils offer the ideal foundation for Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier, two grape varieties that thrive in this setting. The terroir lends itself to vibrant, fruit-driven wines, with Dermot and Ana particularly excited about showcasing fully ripe Pinot Meunier—an often-underappreciated grape that shines here.
Winemaking Approach
At Bee Tree, winemaking embraces simplicity and purity. The wines are fermented in stainless steel without malolactic fermentation, allowing their natural freshness to shine. Grapes are co-pressed, a method that often enhances complexity and character.
The range of Bee Tree’s wines stands apart from Sugrue South Downs’ classic Chardonnay and mineral-driven style. Instead, Bee Tree offers a more approachable, fruit-forward expression, with a focus on immediacy and enjoyment. These Brut-style sparkling wines pair beautifully with richly textured dishes like duck, Asian-inspired cuisine, and roasted pork belly. Created to be enjoyed now and it’s a perfect crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Wine Style Comparison
Bee Tree by Sugrue brings something refreshingly different to the table. Here’s how it stands out:
- Pinot-focused: Made from Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier instead of the typical Chardonnay.
- Fruit-forward: Bursting with flavour, in contrast to a lean, taut style.
- Food-friendly: Perfect with richer dishes, not just traditional seafood pairings.
- Ready to drink: No ageing required—instant enjoyment.
Bee Tree is the ideal choice for anyone looking for an approachable, versatile, and vibrant English sparkling wine.
Commitment to Sustainability
Sustainability lies at the heart of Bee Tree Vineyard. Dermot and Ana’s holistic approach prioritises eco-friendly practices, with active membership in the Sustainable Wines of Great Britain initiative. Regular audits ensure their viticulture aligns with the highest environmental standards.
The vineyard is also an innovation hub, with experimental blocks dedicated to PIWI varieties—naturally fungus-resistant grape vines developed for sustainable farming. Collaborating with Plumpton College, Bee Tree supports hands-on research that could revolutionise English viticulture. The Sugrues are also trialling ground-source heating for frost protection, a sustainable alternative to traditional energy-intensive systems.