UK-based sparkling wine producer Gusbourne Estate has secured a £2m funding from Barclays bank to expand its vineyards and winery in Appledore, Kent.

The funding, which has been provided under the Funding for Lending Scheme, will support an expansion of the company’s vineyards in Appledore, and improve and expand the winery. Additional investment and expansion is planned in the near future.

In its extensive 200ha estate on a single site, the company has 20ha under vine cultivation with Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier grapes.

Gusbourne CEO Ben Walgate said that the expansion of the business at Gusbourne Estate in Kent will involve further vineyard plantings as well as an enlarged winery and visitor centre to attract the growing interest in wine tourism.

"We see further market growth opportunity for the company’s premium English still and sparkling wine products both domestically and internationally.

"We are very proud to be part of the Kent community and will remain closely involved with it as the business expands," Walgate added.

The loan will help support an expansion of the company’s vineyards in Appledore, and improve and expand the winery located on the Gusbourne Estate. Further investment and expansion is planned over the coming years.

Barclays Kent relationship director Kevin Moule said that the expansion and investment will increase production, create new jobs, attract visitors to the area and allow the wines to be more widely available.

"Over the last few years, Gusbourne Estate has developed a strong reputation for producing quality wines, winning many international awards," Moule added.