We had often asked the question could you create wine in Yorkshire? Having seen the success of Ryedale Vineyard and Yorkshire Heart Vineyard we decided that we should take the plunge and create our own micro vineyard on the farm.
We had a plot of south facing protected land just under 0.1 hectares which was perfect for a micro vineyard. So in April 2018 we took the first steps and planted 4 rows and 96 vines of Solaris and Bacchus. What we found was that it was addictive and so we planted further vines in 2019, 2020 and 2021 testing various varieties to see what would grow including Seyval Blanc, Chardonnay, Rondo, Pinot Noir and Dornfelder.
We have always wanted to grow Cabernet Franc and see if at 54⁰N if we could create interesting red wines. Given the site and micro climate we planted 24 vines which produced fruit last year which we have used to help improve our blends.
We had also wanted to be a pioneer and so we have planted 18 Divico vines. In 2019, there were significant plantings of this new variety in the UK, as the vine was seen to be a good match to the UK climate. The promise is that the vines have the potential to produce structured, powerful and intense red wines. We shall see and keep you posted.
We are also believe in sustainable and organic techniques using home based fertilisers and natural seaweed based products to maintain the balance of the soil. A discussion with Johan Reyneke of Reyneke Wines in February 2023 told us we were moving in the right direction.
In 2021 we built our micro winery with the presses, tanks and glass to help create small volumes of specific variety wines. This then enables the blending and creation of individual wines to get the balance we want. We have enjoyed the ability to experiment and create wines we enjoy.
In 2022 we produced our first run of wines which showed promise, so as the vines start to mature, as the UK weather starts to warm, and as our blending skills get better we are looking forward to an entertaining few years
In 2023 we had a bumper crop as the vines begin to mature and this expansion and maturing of the vineyard has continued in 2024.
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