Notes from the Vineyard - September 2025

This month has brought a dramatic shift in the weather — and a reminder of just how much can change in a short space of time. On 28th August, after nearly five months without meaningful rainfall, we experienced a sudden downpour and flash flood. It was the first measurable rain in over 20 weeks — the longest dry spell in 25 years here at Trenant.

While it brought some relief, it also highlighted the scale of the challenge we've faced this season. With the geese left foraging on bare ground and water in short supply, keeping our 16,000 vines and young fruit trees alive through the drought has been a real test of patience, persistence, and irrigation logistics.

And yet, despite everything, we’ve begun the apple harvest with what looks to be a strong crop. We started pressing in mid-August — earlier than usual — and while yields are down (as expected with such dry conditions), we’re on track for around 1,500 litres of juice this season. Pressing will continue into late October, and we’re hopeful that the quality will more than make up for the lighter yield.

We’ve also made significant progress on infrastructure. Our new 1,200 sq ft polytunnel is now up, with the cover fitted earlier this week. While its primary purpose is to provide emergency shelter for our free-range poultry in the event of a bird flu outbreak, it will also give us the space to grow a wide variety of organic salad leaves, vegetables, and soft fruit— another step toward increasing the biodiversity and productivity of the land here.

Looking ahead to winter planting, we’ve placed an order for around 200 more apple trees, including several crab apple varieties that are brilliant for supporting pollinators and attracting birds — a natural way to draw their attention away from the grapes and cultivated fruit. We’ll also be planting 30 wild cherry and silver birch trees to further support pollinators and enhance the landscape around the vineyard.

As always, thank you for following along. Each month brings its challenges and small victories — and we’re so glad to be sharing the journey with you.

From all of us at Saints Way Wines