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THE VINEYARD 

The first grapes were planted near the “Old Mill House” in the picturesque village of Woodham Mortimer on the Dengie Peninsula, a ward of the Maldon District.

Having lived in the district since 1956 the proprietor purchased the “Old Mill House” in 2009 and in subsequent years purchased additional acres of land immediately behind the property. This land consisted of a series of small hills and valleys and was not large enough or suitable for arable cultivation.

The proprietor recogonised that a number of significant vineyards have been established in the area in recent years and was determined to find out whether his land was suitable for such cultivation. Further investigation found that the land was suitable in terms of soil type, drainage, orientation and research indicated that Essex is probably the best area in the Country to grow certain types of grape, specifically Pinot Noir.

The first 10 Acres of vines were planted in 2016 by local contractors who continue to harvest and maintain the vines today.

More recently the proprietor purchased additional land “Spar Hill” in the nearby village of Purleigh. The land has been prepared by draining, various phases of ploughing and harrowing to help create the correct environment. In 2019 the first vines were planted. In total with both vineyards covering about 30 acres, the vines have been planted and are both maturing into fully fledged vineyards.

“Old Mill House” has been producing grapes since 2019 whilst “Spa Hill” is expected to create it’s first crop in 2021.