THE MISBOURNE CLUB
Always a good lunch followed by a fascinating talk
SUMMER OUTING
1st July 2026
THE MISBOURNE CLUB – SUMMER OUTING 2026​
Wednesday 1st July 2026 to Oaken Grove Vineyard.
A Wonderful Day in the Thames Valley
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​Twenty‑seven members and guests enjoyed this year’s annual summer outing. By coincidence, both this and last year’s excursions took us to the Thames Valley — last year near Windsor, and this year near Henley‑on‑Thames.
We arrived at the vineyard at 11am and were warmly welcomed by Phil Rossi, the owner and our guide for the day.
From Orchard to Vineyard
Phil shared the story of the vineyard, explaining that the land had originally been an orchard until his mother purchased it in the late 1990s. He managed the vineyard while working full‑time before retiring to run it completely. Over time he replanted the vines with varieties better suited to modern viticulture, and today produces five different wines.
Among the Vines
Out in the sunshine, Phil talked us through the life cycle of the vines, their cultivation, the development of the grapes and the harvesting process. With the early‑summer heat building, we were glad to return to the shade for the wine tasting.
A Showcase of English Wine
We tasted five wines:
sparkling Pinot Noir Rosé
sparkling Blanc de Noirs
still Bacchus
still Pinot Noir Rosé
still Pinot Noir from 2022. The vineyard only produces this wine in exceptional years.
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Expecting something modest, we instead discovered wines of real character — a clear sign of how far English winemaking has come.
Lunch and Good Company
Lunch featured local cheeses, charcuterie, crackers and accompaniments, perfectly paired with the wines and enjoyed in relaxed, friendly company.
A Day to Remember
It was a thoroughly enjoyable outing — informative, beautifully hosted, and shared with excellent company. Our thanks go to Phil Rossi for his hospitality and to all members and guests who joined us. Days like this remind us why The Misbourne Club continues to thrive: good friends, good conversation, and memorable experiences.