Blog - Page 30 of 53 - Fruit & Vine

“A rising tide floats many boats”: Authenticity and collaboration are key for Somerset orchard

Creating ciders with 100% fruit juice rather than imported concentrates is a point of principle for Dowding’s Apple Juice & Cider, based in Somerset. Deputy editor Sarah Kidby spoke to farm owner Oliver Dowding, on the challenges facing smaller producers, the importance of working with other local businesses, and how the organic farm uses innovative approaches to tackle pest and disease problems.

NIAB publishes its 2024 annual review

NIAB has just published its 2024 annual review, following the success of the first publication last year. 

Devon-based wine producers to compete for prestigious award

The Food Drink Devon Awards launched a new prestigious competition to celebrate the very best wine from around the county. 

Majestic acquires wine bar chain Vagabond which was set to close down

Vagabond Wines Limited (Vagabond) just announced that the chain has secured its future as it has been acquired by Majestic Wine.

Four new forward-thinking degree courses unveiled

Plumpton College has announced a suite of sustainability-focused degree programmes alongside its validating partner, the University of Greenwich.

Top tips for tying down your vineyard

VineWorks viticulturalist, Sam Middleton, offers his advice on how and when to tie down canes in order to boost the health and yield of your vines.

£60k in grants available for regenerative farming projects

The Wine Society has launched a new climate and nature programme that encourages growers to adopt regenerative farming practices by awarding grants to individual projects. 

Having my own brand gave me a voice

Margins are getting tighter and growers are facing a cocktail of difficulties, not least the challenges posed by the supply chain and working with retailers. Sarah Kidby spoke to Yorkshire grower Annabel Makin-Jones about the rewards of launching her own luxury food brand – Annabel’s Deliciously British – four years ago.

Future of UK beer industry: growers test climate-resilient hops

New varieties of organic hops resilient to climate change are being developed around the UK. The news follows concerns over the future of homegrown beer ingredients. 

‘Growing apples and pears in the UK is just not profitable right now’

The cost of producing a kilo of British apples continues to rise for UK growers. The new data reveals that UK farmers have seen a further 5.5% increase in costs of production in the last year. 

Well-known UK berry grower talks about importance of reliable seasonal workers 

A UK berry grower, Hall Hunter, has recently launched an extensive recruitment programme for workers before the season kicks off for good. 

Orchards and micro woods will be created in Walsall thanks to £63k boost 

Community orchards and micro woods are set to be planted in Walsall thanks to a governmental financial boost. 

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