Notes from the Vineyard - March 2026

March has brought predominantly mild weather to the valley, encouraging an early start to spring across the vineyard and orchard. Plum blossom has already appeared, and some of the Solaris vines in particular are showing signs of early bud burst. It is always an exciting moment to see the vines waking up again after winter, though at this stage we are still hoping the season remains kind and that no late frosts arrive.

The poultry have also been quick to respond to the milder conditions. Both the ducks and geese began laying earlier than usual this year, meaning the incubators had to be set up sooner than expected. In preparation for the new arrivals, we have also completed a secure gosling enclosure, which will give the young birds a safe start once they hatch.

Much of the month has been spent finishing the final pieces of winter work around the vineyard. Pruning across the vines is now complete, and we have taken the opportunity to tidy up a number of trees damaged during the winter storms. Considering the devastation seen in parts of West Cornwall earlier in the year, we were fortunate that the damage here at Trenant was relatively minor.

One particularly satisfying milestone has been the removal of all the plastic vine guards that protected the young vines during their early years. All 16,000 guards have now been taken down and sent for recycling, marking another step forward as the vineyard matures.

With blossom appearing, birds nesting and the vines beginning to stir, the land is clearly waking up again. After the long winter months, it is a welcome sight.

From all of us at Saints Way Wines