Your Berks, Bucks and Oxon Wedding - October/November 2023 (Issue 103)

Enchanted love What’s new? Explore behind the doors of these magical, fairytale-inspired venues THE VINEYARD IN BERKSHIRE RECENTLY CELEBRATED ITS 25TH ANNIVERSARY The Vineyard, a bucket list hotel for wine lovers is located just one hour away from London, on the outskirts of Newbury. It’s owned by Sir Peter Michael and offers an intimate and personalised experience for guests. Having recently celebrated it’s 25th anniversary, it’s a destination in itself with 49 spacious rooms and suites, a fantastic spa and a world-class food and beverage offering that features a five-course tasting menu. The Vineyard is also home to one of the largest private art collections in the UK, including notable artworks from the likes of Ronald Searle and sculptures by Michael Thacker and Henry Moore. What further sets The Vineyard apart is the hotel’s impressive collection of 30,000 bottles of wine from both the New and Old World, as well as award-winning wines from Sir Peter Michael’s Winery in California. A temple of Californian Wine, The Vineyard invites its guests to quench their thirst from the moment they enter. Indeed, wine is a key theme throughout the hotel and filters into the food and the interiors. When entering through the front lobby, guests will walk across glass floors with Californian terroir and bottles of wine underfoot. The stunning decor further highlights the wine theme, with six bedrooms named after wines from the Peter Michael Winery and other rooms named after well-known bottles. With intricate cork wallpaper throughout, the bedrooms feature either a red or white wine décor with whimsical signs hanging on the doors that say ‘Time to Top me Up’ and ‘Wine Down’ for room service. If guests can be torn away from their bedrooms, or the impressive wine collection at the hotel, they can explore the surroundings with tours offered by the All Angels Vineyard. The Vineyard Restaurant boasts world-class cuisine with an impressive wine list to match. The food has taken inspiration from the hotel’s Californian heritage, whilst all ingredients are sourced from local fishermen, farmers and the hotel’s herb garden. Talented executive chef, Tom Scade, has created a menu that’s ever-changing and tailored to the seasons, creating a truly unique dining experience. Every dish can be paired with a delicious glass of wine or a unique cocktail. Whether guests call themselves wine connoisseurs or simply love a refreshing glass of wine, The Vineyard’s expert team guarantees that any guest will find their perfect match. For those looking to wind down, the spa offers a perfect way for visitors to leave feeling rejuvenated and relaxed having experienced a host of heavenly treatments. In addition to working with Elemental Herbology, the spa has partnered with well-renowned natural skincare brand, Irene Forte. With a zero-waste mission, all ingredients are sustainably sourced from Irene Forte’s own organic farm in Sicily. Products are stored in glass refillable bottles and are also vegan-friendly. Irene Forte’s ethos reflects The Vineyard’s beliefs that we have an active role to play in protecting the environment. With an ECOSmart Accreditation (Silver Award), The Vineyard has teamed up with Climate Care to reduce greenhouse gases and all single-use plastic bottles have been replaced with glass. The hotel has five EV charging points, the building is constructed largely from sustainable or reclaimed materials and the team is focused on supporting local charities. Later this year, The Vineyard will be hosting an annual art exhibition weekend, and introduce wine masterclasses and cellar tours to guests. To find out more and to book, visit www.the-vineyard.co.uk 19 THEMED VENUES

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