Vine

As UK growers increasingly look for alternatives to conventional fertilisers, deputy editor Sarah Kidby spoke to Jason Colin of Natura Grow, to learn about a unique plant-based fertiliser that is gaining traction on vineyards and orchards in the UK.

The Vergenoegd Löw Wine Estate in South Africa says its flock of ducks contribute a balanced, healthy ecosystem in its vineyards – as well as adding an air of ‘intrigue and charm’ to the estate.

Husband-and-wife team Martyn Pollock and Helen Matheson-Pollock are committed to making small batch, estate-grown wines that are a true expression of their boutique vineyard in the heart of the Kent countryside. Rachel Hicks writes.

Having bought a vineyard with his wife 20 years ago, with the mentality “leap, and the net will appear”, Master Winemaker and consultant Justin Howard-Sneyd now advises his clients to look before they leap – helping them to find their ‘why?’ before they plant a vineyard.

White Castle Vineyard scooped Best Overall Wine for its still red, Harry, and was presented with a trophy by the Welsh minister for rural affairs.

Emma Rice, one of the most respected UK winemakers, set up her own winemaking consultancy company earlier this year. Deputy editor Sarah Kidby caught up with Emma for some industry insights.

With two decades of experience working as a consultant in precision agriculture, Ian Beecher-Jones has embarked on a mission to revolutionise how technologies are being used on vineyards to work towards solving the industry’s greatest challenges while growing the best grapes possible.

The Sussex Business Awards have announced that VineWorks has been shortlisted for Medium Business of the Year for 2023.

Berry Bros & Rudd and Symington Family Estates have confirmed their acquisition of Hambledon Vineyard, following a successful plc takeover bid.

Balfour Winery, one of England’s largest producers, believes that 2023 could represent a seismic shift for the industry, after a record-breaking harvest which could create new opportunities for English wine; both in this country and abroad.

The 2023 grape harvest is complete and the team at Albury Organic Vineyard in Surrey is celebrating a huge crop.

East Yorkshire vineyard Laurel Vines has been able to decrease the amount of ag-chems applied to vines using a natural product made by earthworms.