Reducing the S0₂ doses 

Socio-cultural developments have led to changes in wine consumption. Consumers are increasingly concerned by the composition of what they drink and in particular in the presence or absence of allergens, including sulphites.

Recognising a potential market, two Charmat method wines made from British grown grapes, were launched in 2017. Leading the charge are Flint vineyard in Norfolk and Fitz, a brand based at a winery in West Sussex. Vineyard finds out why the success of these two products has tempted more brands – some with significant volumes – to explore this exciting sector increasing the footfall of English wine drinkers.

Barrels in the distant past were typically used to store and transport goods, including wine and although we have more convenient means of storing wine, oak barrels are still a feature in many wineries. A well-lit cellar stacked with barrels certainly adds to the romance of wine, but Vineyard finds out how oak barrels influence the sensory profile, the wine quality and if they can be replaced by staves, chips or other oak alternatives.

Building a new winery can be daunting as the planning process has a reputation for being a minefield of complicated restrictions. Sandridge Barton, South Devon, The Grange Hampshire and Domaine Evremond, Kent, have successfully navigated the process and share their experiences with Vineyard – along with some top tips from experienced town planner, Gareth Capner.

Advances in technology and wine science support winemakers in achieving the highest quality wines but blending still fundamentally relies on the capability of the winemaker, their palate and experience – and is a skill which must be learnt. Vineyard asks David Cowderoy, a winemaker of 30 years who has prepared blends for many wine styles all around the world, for some practical tips. 

It’s that time of year again when winemakers lose sleep worrying about getting their beautifully crafted wines into bottle without ‘stuffing up’ the quality – and praying that there won’t be any re-fermentation or other issues. Vineyard finds out the steps winemakers take to ‘get it right’ before the wine goes into bottle, to ensure that wines reach the customer in the best possible condition.

The coming of age of the English and Welsh wine industry.

• www.blackbookwinery.com • sergio@blackbookwinery.com

Jeremy Mount, winemaker at Woodchester Valley, Gloucestershire, talks to Vineyard about the enormous potential for home-grown still wines.

Focus on glass composition, glass colour and lightweight glass.

• www.BruniErben.co.uk  • Mark.Crumpton@BruniErben.co.uk • 07805 081677

Critical points to think about when tasting and blending.