Grower Profile Articles

Nestled in the north Essex countryside, Tuffon Hall Vineyard has much to offer wine lovers thanks to its reputation for producing award-winning sparkling and still wines. More recently however, the estate has also become a popular staycation destination.

Initially a couple’s retirement dream, White Castle Vineyard has become much more than that. Through years of dedicated work, owners Robb and Nicola Merchant have converted what was once a run-down dairy farm into a thriving enterprise that is now at the forefront of Welsh wine production, renowned for crafting quality wines with care and sustainability.

Dingle Farm grows around 60 different varieties of cherries, apricots and plums in Worcestershire, including a number of trial varieties – with its key aims being to increase yields and fruit size, and to find later varieties. Deputy editor Sarah Kidby spoke to farm manager Matt Foster to find out more.

Tinwood Estate is a family-owned vineyard growing high-quality grapes that produce fine English sparkling wine. Located on the edge of the South Downs near Chichester in Sussex, owner Art Tukker has seen the parcel of land go through significant changes over the years.

The Chambers family has grown mixed fruit in Langley, Maidstone since 1648 and now grows around 30 varieties of strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, blueberries and cherries – a strategy that has allowed the farm to meet niche consumer needs as well as providing a risk-averse strategy in cropping patterns. Deputy editor Sarah Kidby reports.

Rooted firmly in the Essex countryside, owner Robert Blyth says Prettyfields Vineyard harnesses the local microclimate to “grow the finest grapes and put the very best into our bottles”. Editor Rachel Hicks chatted with him this month.

Growing specialist varieties that get consumers excited about the apple category, and working in harmony with nature, are central to the business direction of Braiseworth Orchards. Deputy editor Sarah Kidby visited the Suffolk fruit farm.

Award-winning, world-class wines from a beautiful corner of Cornwall. Second generation winemaker, Sam Lindo, turned his back on a city career and moved back to his parents’ vineyard where he grew up. The enterprise is now run as a real family affair, and a true labour of love which shows in the award-winning wines produced. Rachel Hicks writes.

Focus on quality and profitability will follow. The primary focus is on good quality top-fruit farming for Kent-based brothers and apple, pear and cherry growers David and William Riccini, of W&D Riccini.

Located in an area of outstanding natural beauty overlooking both the Orwell and Stour estuaries, Shotley Vineyard is a well-hidden treasure on the east coast of Suffolk.