Frequently Asked Questions
Special Dietary Requirements
We can cater for almost any dietary requirement as long as we know in advance.
When you book please make sure you tell us about special dietary requirements on the booking form so we can cater for you on the day. If you have forgotten to do this, please don't wait until the day, please give us a call in at least five days in advance and we will amend your booking.
Suitable Clothing and Footwear
On the day you will be spending a part of the tour walking around the vines to see the different varieties and the growing process. This will be on level grass that can get a little muddy if it rains, suitable footwear is advised. We do go out even when the weather is not perfect, so if you don't want to miss out make sure you're able to wrap up warm and dry.
Dogs
We love dogs on the site, but not everyone is of the same option. We do not therefore allow dogs in our tasting barn, and we ask that if outside, you keep your dog on a lead at all times.
You can take your dog on the tour portion of the experience (first hour), where they can learn all about grape varieties and the wine making process, but you’ll need to put them back in the car for the tasting and lunch.
If the weather is good, you can choose have lunch on our outdoor seating, in which case they can join you. Parking is very close to the tasting barn so you can check on them as regularly as you wish.
Disabled Access
Our tasting barn is fully wheelchair accessible, we have a spacious toilet but it is not specifically a disabled toilet, facilities parking is available very close to the tasting barn.
The first part of the tour is through the vines themselves; this is on grass and is usually okay for wheel chairs, however if the weather has been wet things can be a little more challenging.
If anyone would prefer to stay indoors they are very welcome to stay with our tour staff that will make sure they are taken care of and safe while they wait for everyone to back indoors to do the tasting of the wine.
Children
Our tour and tastings are adult only experiences, we do have an over 18 policy. Many come to enjoy a day away from the excitement and bountiful exuberance of their little bundles of joy. We therefore try to maintain this calmer environment for all our guests.
If you are to visit the vineyard not on the tour and you are bringing your children, please note that we have a large pond (lake) onsite and children must be supervised at all times.
Parking
We have lots of parking onsite, very close to the tasting barn where your experience begins. You will be parking on a gravel drive by the barns or grassy area to your left as you enter through the black gate. Please drive up close enough to the black gate and it will automatically open.
Group Bookings
We do offer group tour and tasting bookings, for more information please contact: sld@dedhamvalevineyard.com or call 07944376584
Taxis
Here a few taxi companies in the area:
Five Eights Taxi, 01206 588888
Colchester Taxi, 01206 585585
Lucky 6 Taxi, 01206 666666
Five Sevens Taxi, 01206 577777