Theatre and wine share a special kind of magic. Both are crafted with dedication, precision and artistry. Both have the power to transport, to inspire, to linger in the memory. At Gusbourne, we believe that every great performance deserves a great toast – so it’s a privilege to be the sparkling wine partner of the Donmar Warehouse.
Just as the Donmar has built its reputation on producing bold, innovative theatre, Gusbourne has spent the past two decades redefining what English sparkling wine can be. We planted our first vines in Kent in 2004, convinced that this special corner of England had the potential to create something remarkable. Today, our wines are served in some of the UK’s most celebrated restaurants and poured for those who appreciate craftsmanship and character.
At the Donmar, a very special tradition takes place behind the scenes: the cast and crew of each production share a magnum of Gusbourne on opening night, raising a glass to weeks of hard work and dedication. It’s a moment of celebration, of camaraderie and of shared achievement. And for audiences, Gusbourne Brut Reserve and Blanc de Blancs are available at the theatre bar – so you too can enjoy a glass as part of your Donmar experience.
Elevate your interval drinks
Two of our best-loved wines are available at the Donmar Warehouse, each offering a different expression of the distinctive terroir of our vineyards in Kent and Sussex.
Gusbourne Brut Reserve is generous, golden and instantly inviting. Made from a classic blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier, it offers bright notes of citrus, orchard fruit and fresh pastry balanced by a finely structured finish. It’s an elegant yet approachable sparkling – just as suited to raising a toast at an opening night party as it is to enjoying before the curtain rises.
Gusbourne Blanc de Blancs, on the other hand, is elegant and pure. Made from Chardonnay, it’s a wine that evolves beautifully in the glass, revealing layers of green apple, citrus and mineral notes alongside richer hints of buttered toast. It’s a wine of finesse, perfect for those who appreciate the artistry of a perfectly balanced performance – whether on stage or in the glass.
Visit Gusbourne in Kent
For those who have enjoyed a glass of Gusbourne at the Donmar, we extend an invitation to visit us at our home in Kent, where you can experience our wines where they’re crafted. Our vineyards in Appledore, Kent, where warm, south-facing soils help us grow grapes of exceptional quality.
At our cellar door, The Nest, you can take a guided tour through the vines, learn about our winemaking philosophy and enjoy tutored tastings of our full range of wines. We also host intimate dining experiences, pairing our wines with exceptional seasonal produce. Whether you’re a long-time admirer of English sparkling wine or just beginning to explore, there’s no better way to discover what makes Gusbourne unique.
Much like theatre, wine is best experienced in the moment. So next time you’re at the Donmar, raise a glass of Gusbourne and celebrate the artistry of both stage and cellar. And if you find yourself wanting to know more, we’d love to welcome you to our vineyards to continue the story.
Plan your visit to our estate in Appledore, just an hour from London.
