Rathfinny Wine Estate Launches London Restaurant Takeovers

ALFRISTON, England, June 26, 2026 — Rathfinny Wine Estate has announced a summer restaurant takeover series featuring renowned London dining destinations Bluebird Chelsea and Orrery by Pierre Minotti. The events will bring exclusive tasting experiences to the Sussex vineyard throughout August, combining fine dining with English sparkling wine pairings.

The initiative comes as vineyard estates across the UK continue expanding their hospitality offerings to attract food and wine travelers seeking destination-led culinary experiences.

Rathfinny Wine Estate Brings London Restaurants to Sussex

Rathfinny Wine Estate will host chefs from Bluebird Chelsea and Michelin-starred Orrery by Pierre Minotti at its Tasting Room restaurant as part of a special summer takeover programme. The events will showcase curated tasting menus paired with wines produced on the estate. 

The partnership forms part of a collaboration with hospitality group Evolv Collection, which operates both London restaurants. 

Bluebird Chelsea Leads August Dining Events

Bluebird Chelsea will take over the Rathfinny Tasting Room on August 15 with a seven-course tasting menu inspired by its modern British cuisine. Guests will receive a welcome glass of Rathfinny Classic Cuvée 2020, while optional Sussex wine pairings will also be available. 

The London restaurant, located on King's Road in Chelsea, has built a reputation for seasonal British dishes and social dining experiences. The event also coincides with a Bluebird food truck pop-up operating on the estate during selected August dates. 

Orrery Brings Michelin-Starred Experience to the Vineyard

Later in the month, Orrery by Pierre Minotti will host takeover dinners on August 22 and 29. Chef Pierre Minotti and his team will present a seven-course tasting menu highlighting seasonal British ingredients prepared using refined French techniques. 

The experience includes a welcome glass of Rathfinny Classic Cuvée 2020, with guests also able to select an optional Sussex wine flight paired to each course. 

Wine Tourism Continues to Grow

Rathfinny Wine Estate, located within the South Downs National Park in East Sussex, has increasingly positioned itself as a destination for wine tourism, dining and hospitality experiences. The estate produces vintage sparkling wines and offers vineyard tours, tastings and accommodation for visitors.

Earlier this year, the estate also announced plans to expand accommodation facilities and reimagine its hospitality offering as interest in English wine tourism continues to grow. 

Hospitality Partnerships Expand Destination Dining

The takeover programme reflects a broader trend within the hospitality sector where wineries, hotels and restaurants collaborate to create limited-time culinary events. Such partnerships allow guests to experience established restaurant brands in unique destination settings while supporting regional food and beverage tourism.

For Rathfinny Wine Estate, the London restaurant takeover series adds another dimension to its visitor experience ahead of the peak summer tourism season. 

Source: Rathfinny Wine Estate, Evolv Collection and official event announcements. HospitalityCareerProfile