Nutbourne Nursery: Growing Delicious Tomatoes in the Heart of West Sussex

Local, British Tomatoes

When it comes to tomatoes, few can rival the exquisite taste and quality of West Sussex Nutbourne tomatoes. Nestled in the scenic countryside of West Sussex, England, Nutbourne Vineyards has been producing these luscious tomatoes for over 40 years. With a commitment to sustainable farming practices and a passion for producing the best possible crops, Nutbourne Farm has established a strong reputation for growing some of the finest produce in the area.

The Nutbourne Story

The Nutbourne Vineyards, situated on the south-facing slopes of the South Downs in West Sussex, have been family-owned and operated for centuries. Originally known for their award-winning wines, the vineyard expanded its offerings to include tomatoes in the late 1990s. The unique microclimate, fertile soil, and dedication to organic farming practices have played a significant role in the success of their tomato production.

Unlike many commercial tomato farms, Nutbourne Vineyards prioritize flavor over quantity. They carefully select tomato varieties known for their exceptional taste, such as the sweet and vibrant cherry tomatoes or the meaty and aromatic beefsteak tomatoes. The tomatoes are grown using sustainable methods, with natural fertilizers and pest control methods. This meticulous approach results in tomatoes that are bursting with flavor, delighting the taste buds of locals and visitors alike.

Nutbourne Farm grows a range of different tomato varieties, including cherry, beefsteak, and heirloom tomatoes. Each variety is carefully selected for its flavour and texture, and the team of growers work hard to ensure that the tomatoes are picked at the peak of ripeness to ensure maximum flavour and freshness. At Bellord & Brown we love seasonal, British tomatoes, they are a staple of British cuisine, and at Nutbourne Farm, they take great pride in growing some of the tastiest and most nutritious tomatoes in the country. With a focus on quality and flavour, the team at Nutbourne Farm has developed a reputation for producing tomatoes that are bursting with sweetness and freshness.

Cooking with British Tomatoes

We stock Nutbourne tomatoes in store while they’re in season from around May to September time. In our Beaulieu Deli, we serve Nutboune tomatoes in our fresh salads, sandwiches and soups, you can even see Nutbourne tomatoes popping up in our homemade chutneys! If you fancy serving up some Nutbourne tomatoes at home, here is one of our favourite (and easy) ways to dish up some delicious British tomatoes:

Pan Con Tomate Recipe – A Spanish classic

This simple yet incredible tasting dish unleashing the exceptional flavour of the tomatoes. Follow our satisfying recipe which celebrates the freshness and natural sweetness of Nutbourne tomatoes.

Ingredients and Instructions:

·         4 medium size, ripe West Sussex Nutbourne tomatoes

·         1 clove garlic

·         4 thick slices of crusty bread

(We recommend Hoxton sourdough, which we sell in store)

·         Extra virgin olive oil

·         Sea salt

·         Freshly ground black pepper

1.    Begin by frying the slices of crusty bread in some olive oil gently, until they turn golden brown and crispy. Set them aside to cool slightly.

2.    Cut the garlic clove in half and rub onto one side of each slice of bread. This imparts a subtle garlic flavour that complements the tomatoes.

3.    Take the ripe Nutbourne tomatoes and grate them using a box grater into a bowl. Be sure to catch all the juice and pulp, leaving behind only the skin.

4.    Separate your tomato juice and pulp with a sieve and leave juice aside (if you’re a tomato juice lover, you can drink this as added treat). Spoon the grated tomatoes onto each slice of bread, spreading it evenly.

5.    Drizzle a generous amount of extra virgin olive oil over the tomato-topped bread. This adds richness and a silky texture to the dish.

6.    Season with a pinch of sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. The salt helps enhance the natural sweetness of the tomatoes, while the pepper adds a touch of mild heat.

7.    Allow the Pan con Tomate to sit for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. This also allows the bread to soak up some of the tomato juices, creating a delightful combination of textures.

8.    Serve the Pan con Tomate as an appetizer, a light lunch, or alongside a main course. It pairs exceptionally well with grilled meats, seafood, or even a simple cheese plate.

The New Forest Deli

At Bellord & Brown we are proud stockists of Nutbourne Tomatoes, they are a fantastic example of a sustainable and environmentally conscious farm that produces high-quality and delicious produce. If you're a tomato lover, then make sure to pop into our Beaulieu store, where you can buy some of the finest tomatoes in the region alongside some of the other greatest local and seasonal produce.

Come see the Beaulieu store and deli for yourself, visit us today.

Want to read more? Check out our journal here.