As the reputation of English white wine continues to grow, one grape variety stands out from the rest: Bacchus. Revered for its vibrant aromatics and crisp acidity, Bacchus white wine has become a signature of the modern English wine movement — especially at local vineyards in the Chilterns, like Marlow Valley Vineyard.
But what exactly makes Bacchus so special? And why is it earning a place at the table alongside better-known European varieties?
A Grape Made for English Conditions
Originally developed in Germany, Bacchus is a cross between Silvaner, Riesling, and Müller-Thurgau. While it never achieved major success in its home country, it has found its ideal environment in the UK’s cool-climate vineyards. The long growing season and moderate temperatures in southern England — particularly here in Buckinghamshire — allow Bacchus to ripen slowly, preserving its naturally bright character.
At Marlow Valley Vineyard, Bacchus is the cornerstone of our production. Our Buckinghamshire vineyard benefits from chalky soils, gentle slopes, and a sheltered microclimate that allows the grape to express its full potential.
The Taste of Bacchus
If you’re a fan of Sauvignon Blanc, there’s a good chance you’ll love Bacchus. It’s often described as intensely aromatic, with lively acidity and a crisp, refreshing finish. Typical tasting notes include elderflower, gooseberry, citrus peel, green apple, and a subtle herbal undertone.
This flavour profile makes Bacchus English wine incredibly versatile — perfect for warm afternoons, light dishes, and as a crowd-pleasing apéritif. It’s also ideal for food pairings, especially with seafood, salads, and fresh cheeses.
How We Make It at Marlow Valley
Crafting Bacchus white wine begins with careful attention to the growing season. Each vintage is monitored for sugar levels, acidity, and flavour development. At harvest, we handpick the fruit and transport it gently for pressing.
The juice is then fermented at controlled temperatures to preserve the delicate aromatics that define Bacchus. The final result is a clean, elegant English white wine with real character — reflective of both the grape and our Marlow vineyard terroir.
A Rising Star in the UK Wine Scene
While English sparkling wine has long received international attention, Bacchus is now helping define the still wine category. Its adaptability and freshness have made it the go-to variety for many English wine producers, and its success is starting to reach beyond the UK.
At Marlow Valley Vineyard, we’ve already earned national recognition for our Bacchus — including a Gold Medal at the WineGB Awards 2025 — reinforcing its status as an award-winning English wine and a true asset to Buckinghamshire wine.
Why It’s a Local Favourite
As more consumers seek out wine tasting in Buckinghamshire and vineyard experiences in the Chilterns, Bacchus continues to impress. It’s the star of many English white wine tastings due to its aromatic profile and ability to reflect local terroir.
Even though we don’t yet offer on-site tastings or tours (coming soon), we’ve seen strong demand from customers looking for wine tasting near Marlow and a connection to the land behind the bottle. For now, each bottle of our Bacchus English wine offers a window into that experience.
Bacchus vs. the World
What sets Bacchus apart from international white wines is its distinct British charm. Where New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc might offer power and pungency, Bacchus leans toward subtlety, balance, and floral finesse.
And unlike many mass-produced wines, Bacchus from a boutique English vineyard like ours is a product of craftsmanship, terroir, and minimal intervention — qualities that are increasingly appreciated by modern wine drinkers.
Bacchus Rosé and Marlow Valley Sparkling Wine
Bacchus also plays a role in blended wines, and although our current focus is on still Bacchus white wine, the variety is occasionally used in English sparkling wine and rosé blends. At Marlow Valley, we’re exploring what the future may hold, including the possibility of crafting English rosé wine and other expressions in the years ahead.
Where to Buy Bacchus White Wine
Our Marlow wine, crafted entirely from Bacchus grapes, is available directly from our online shop. Each bottle reflects the hard work of our team, the quality of the fruit, and the unique microclimate of our Buckinghamshire vineyard.
Whether you’re hosting friends, marking a celebration, or simply enjoying a peaceful evening at home, Bacchus is a brilliant introduction to the best English wines available today.
A True Taste of Marlow
From the vine rows of our Marlow vineyard to your glass, Bacchus white wine represents everything we love about English wine: innovation, elegance, and a deep respect for the land.
If you’re curious to discover the grape that’s redefining what English white wine can be, Bacchus is where to start — and we’d love to share it with you.