Better Business / Member news
Bristol wine producer secures second site
The long search for a second site for a Bristol-founded wine producer has reached a happy ending.
Dunleavy Vineyards have secured a new plot near the village of Kelston on the outskirts of Bath.
The south-facing, sandy-sloped site, which overlooks the River Avon and the surrounding countryside, marks the end of a years-long hunt for the “perfect” growing location.
The land was purchased from neighbouring producer Bath Soft Cheese, whose owner Hugh Padfield said he was “delighted” to welcome Dunleavy to the area.
The land was purchased from neighbouring producer Bath Soft Cheese, whose owner Hugh Padfield(left) said he was “delighted” to welcome Dunleavy to the area – photo: Ingrid Bates
The two businesses have already begun collaborating, launching exclusive joint hampers celebrating Somerset produce.
Founder Ingrid Bates said the new site represents a major milestone for Dunleavy, allowing for increased grape and wine production as well as new visitor experiences alongside Bath Soft Cheese’s Park farm cafe.
“We’re absolutely thrilled to have finally found the perfect piece of land to call home,” she said.
“We’re looking forward to getting the new vineyard established and to growing more grapes. Planting the vines is just the first step in a long process.”
Dunleavy will continue to manage its existing North Somerset vineyard near Wrington, with both sites expected to complement each other – photo: Dunleavy Vineyards
Planting will begin soon, though the first harvest is not expected for at least three to four years while the vines establish themselves.
Dunleavy will continue to manage its existing North Somerset vineyard near Wrington, with both sites expected to complement each other.
The news was welcomed by supporters who backed Dunleavy’s 2021 crowdfunding campaign to help the business secure the new plot.
Founder Ingrid Bates said the new site represents a major milestone for Dunleavy – photo: Remco Merbis
Ingrid added: “As the saying goes, good things come to those who wait — and we’re confident the end result will be worth it. We can’t wait to release our first vintage showcasing the unique terroir of our new site.”
Main photo: Dunleavy Vineyards
Read next:
Our newsletters emailed directly to you
