A Morning of Fine Wines at Gusbourne Estate - May 2025

A Warm Welcome at The Nest

On a bright spring morning, around forty guests joined us for another Networking With a Difference event — this time at the stunning Gusbourne Estate in Appledore. The weather was perfect: warm sunshine, blue skies, and the kind of day made for enjoying the Kent countryside.

Guests arrived and checked in under the pergola beside The Nest, where our team greeted them and handed out name badges. Networking began straight away in the sunshine, with glasses of Gusbourne English Sparkling Wine setting the tone for a lively and sociable morning. The relaxed outdoor setting, framed by the vineyard, provided the perfect backdrop for conversation, connection, and a touch of luxury.

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Talks, Tours and Taste

Before the vineyard tours began, guests gathered to hear short, informal talks from our Managing Director, Nick McGowan, and Dan Grainger, General Manager at Gusbourne. Nick welcomed everyone, thanked our partners and guests, and shared updates on our latest events and future plans. Dan then offered an insight into Gusbourne’s winemaking philosophy and the care that goes into producing their award-winning English wines.

Afterwards, guests were invited to explore the vineyard in small groups, with two relaxed tours running for those who wanted to learn more about the vines and the winemaking process. Others stayed under the pergola to continue networking, enjoying informal wine tastings and conversations with Dan and the Gusbourne team.

A Display of Cars and Culinary Delights

Adding an extra twist to the morning, several guests arrived in classic and performance cars, turning the car park beside The Nest into a mini car show. From sleek McLarens and a Porsche to a vintage VW Beetle and even a Mercedes army truck, the display drew plenty of admiration and provided another lively talking point throughout the event.

Later in the morning, guests enjoyed a rustic buffet of feta salad, cured meats, brie and grapes, pork pies, fresh bread, and potato salad — perfectly complemented by Gusbourne’s sparkling wines. The food and drink reflected both the season and the venue’s refined yet relaxed style, as guests mingled and made new connections in the sunshine.

Thanks & Highlights

As the event drew to a close, guests lingered over their final glasses, enjoying both the hospitality and the setting. It was a morning full of conversation, fine wines, and memorable company — the perfect mix of professionalism and pleasure that defines Networking With a Difference.

Our sincere thanks go to Gusbourne Estate for hosting us so warmly, to Dan Grainger and Alice Hanson for their help in organising the morning, and to all our guests — especially those who brought along their beautiful cars — for making the event such a success.