A VILLAGE vineyard has scooped a top wine award despite a tough season brought on by the pandemic.

The Tuffon Hall Vineyard in Castle Hedingham has announced it recently won a a Silver Award at the National Wine GB Awards.

The vineyard won the award for its Pinot Noir Rose, 2020 Beatrice.

Tuffon Hall has a proud history having previously won top honours in the Wines of Great Britain Awards, Wine GB East Anglia and London Wine Competition last year.

Vineyard owner Angus Crowther is pleased to have picked up the award despite the hardships brought on by the pandemic.

He said: "Whilst we knew we would never get the same haul of medals as last year, we are delighted that our rose continues to please the judges and especially our customers.

"In winning a national silver medal, it still shows our ability to consistently produce roses of the highest quality, that are even better than those from Provence. Cheers!"

It comes as the vineyard prepares for a busy summer with Covid restrictions easing.

Tuffon Hall say they plan on holding a number of events, many of which were cancelled last year.

They will be holding their annual Jazz in the Vines event on Saturday, August 28.

The event runs from 4pm to 7pm and sees visitors enjoy some relaxing music, award-winning wine and classy food.

This year though, the Jazz event will be preceded by a new DJ in the Vines event.

This event will be held on August 27 during the same hours and features chilled house and soul music.

Tuffon Hall say tickets are on offer for £15 per person but a two day pass can be bought for £25 per person.

For more information, visit tuffonhall.co.uk.