Vineyards
West Chiltington is unusual in the South of England in that within its parish boundaries it has three established vineyards. Friar's is tiny and not well known outside the village. Nutbourne is more well-known locally and is gradually changing its grape varieties from Germanic types (Sylvaner and Muller-Thurgau) to French ones (Pinot Noir and Chardonnay) but the vineyard of international fame is Nyetimber. Nyetimber is based on an old manor which reputedly was part of the dowry of Anne of Cleves when she married Henry VIII. The first vintage in 1992 was chosen for the Queen's Golden Jubilee dinner. It has recently expanded substantially so that second growths are now in place. The second growth vineyards are located between Petworth and Midhurst. The First Growth 2003 was crowned "Champion of Worldwide Sparkling Wines" (2009) by the Italian wine magazine Euposia using a blind tasting test. The 2003 vintage has won six awards to date including the Euposia award; the latest being a silver medal at the Decanter World Wine Awards 2010.
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