Managing an English vineyard – from ground to glass

English wine has never been in a better position. Once considered a niche choice, it is now gaining widespread recognition for its quality, character and sustainability. Several key factors are driving this success and helping English wine stand proudly on the global stage. Harnessing a changing climate One of the biggest influences on the rise of English wine is climate change. Warmer, longer growing seasons are allowing grapes to ripen more reliably, while England’s naturally cool conditions still preserve the fresh acidity that defines its wines. This balance is particularly well‑suited to varieties such as our Bacchus – producing wines that are vibrant, elegant and food‑friendly. Improved skills & investment The growth of English wine has also been supported by increased investment and expertise. Vineyard managers and winemakers are continually refining techniques, from canopy management to harvest timing. Modern equipment and a deeper understanding of English soils mean producers can respond to each vintage with precision, resulting in consistently higher quality wines. Sustainability & appeal Sustainability plays a major role in English wine’s popularity. Locally produced and not flown around the world, English wine has a lower carbon footprint compared to many imports. Many vineyards also focus on environmentally responsible growing and production, which resonates strongly with today’s conscious consumers who want to support nearby, independent businesses. A shift in perception  Perhaps most importantly, attitudes have changed. Awards, positive media coverage and growing availability have encouraged people to choose English wine with confidence. Consumers are increasingly curious, proud to buy British and eager to explore what’s being produced closer to home. Together, these factors have created the perfect moment for English wine to flourish – and its future looks brighter than ever.

If you’re passionate about wine and want to deepen your knowledge beyond the glass, there’s a world of literature waiting for you. Whether you’re a casual sipper or a budding connoisseur, these books offer insight, history and practical tips for appreciating wine at its finest. Wine and Food: The Perfect Match Pairing wine with food is an art, and this book makes it accessible. It’s packed with practical advice for British favourites – from roast beef to fish and chips, which goes rather well with our wines – ensuring your next dinner party shines. The World Atlas of Wine by Hugh Johnson & Jancis Robinson Considered the bible of wine lovers, this beautifully illustrated guide explores vineyards across the globe. It’s ideal for those curious about terroir and the geography behind great bottles. Wine Folly: Magnum Edition by Madeline Puckette & Justin Hammack For a modern, visual approach, Wine Folly simplifies complex concepts with infographics and charts. Perfect for beginners who want to learn without feeling overwhelmed. Adventures on the Wine Route by Kermit Lynch This charming travelogue takes you through French wine country, blending storytelling with practical insights. It’s a delightful read for anyone dreaming of a vineyard holiday. Oz Clarke’s Wine Guide  No British wine book list is complete without Oz Clarke. His approachable style and expert recommendations make this guide a must-have for navigating supermarket shelves or planning a cellar.

English wine has undergone a remarkable transformation during the past two decades, evolving from a niche curiosity into a globally respected industry. Once overshadowed by France and Italy, England is now producing award-winning wines that rival the best in the world. Climate & craftsmanship The secret lies in climate and craftsmanship. Warmer summers and longer growing seasons – thanks to climate change – have created ideal conditions for grape varieties like our Ortega and Bacchus, as well as Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Star of the show These latter two are the same grapes used in Champagne, which explains why English sparkling wine has become the star of the show. In fact, our counterparts at producers such as Nyetimber and Chapel Down regularly beat French counterparts in blind tastings. Distinctive character But English wine isn’t just about sparkling. Still wines, like ours, particularly crisp Bacchus whites and elegant Pinot Noirs, are gaining recognition for their distinctive character. With more than 900 vineyards across the UK, the industry now contributes significantly to the rural economy, creating jobs and attracting wine tourism. Why does this matter? English wine represents sustainability, innovation and we’re proud to be part of this burgeoning industry. Supporting producers near you reduces carbon footprints and strengthens communities. It also offers wine lovers a chance to explore unique flavours that reflect England’s terroir. Buy British  So next time you’re choosing a bottle, consider picking something that’s English and, where possible, produced on your doorstep. Whether it’s a celebratory sparkling or a refreshing white, like on of ours, English wine is no longer an underdog – it’s a world-class contender.

Looking to add a handmade touch to your Christmas table this year? A festive foliage candle arrangement is a beautiful, natural way to bring seasonal charm to your home – and it’s easier to make than you might think! Here’s how to create your own stunning centrepiece using fresh greenery and a little creativity and afterwards you can raise a glass of our wine to celebrate your successful creation. What you’ll need: A small round or square floristry dish (around 6–7 inches) An environmentally sound floral foam (cut to fit your dish) Florist tape A candle — either a tall taper or a classic church candle A selection of fresh foliage Gloves and sharp secateurs Optional decorations: pinecones, dried orange/lime slices, cinnamon sticks, baubles, and mini festive ornaments Florists wire (for securing decorations) Step-by-step guide : Prepare your base Cut your foam to fit snugly inside the floristry dish. Soak it thoroughly in water, then place it back into the dish. Use florist tape to secure it – tape across both sides and wrap around the dish but leave the centre clear for your candle. Add your candle Choose your candle style – a thin taper for elegance or a church candle for a traditional look. For a church candle, gently scrape out a hole in the foam to nestle it securely. Select and prepare your foliage Use a mix of fresh foliage to keep your arrangement looking vibrant for longer. Wearing gloves, trim each piece with secateurs, removing lower leaves to leave a clean stem for easy placement. Build your arrangement Start at the base, inserting one piece of foliage at a time. For a round shape, keep all pieces the same length. For an oval design, use shorter pieces on the sides. As you work upwards toward the candle, gradually shorten each layer to create a neat, tapered effect. Add festive flair Fill any gaps with extra foliage, then decorate with seasonal touches – pinecones, dried citrus slices, cinnamon sticks, baubles, or mini ornaments. Use florists wire to secure them in place. Care tips Keep your arrangement in a cool spot, away from direct heat, and water the foam regularly to keep the foliage fresh throughout the festive season.

Creating a refined dining experience begins with the details – and one of the most impactful yet often overlooked elements is the arrangement of wine glasses in relation to other tableware. A well-set table not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also reflects thoughtfulness and sophistication, setting the tone for a memorable meal. Arranging glassware When arranging glassware, symmetry and accessibility are key. Begin by placing the water glass to the left, slightly above the main plate. This anchors the layout and serves as a visual starting point. Next, position the red wine glass to the right of the water glass, aligning it diagonally above the knife. This placement balances the setting and allows for easy reach. Serving white wine If serving white wine, place the white wine glass to the right of the red wine glass, forming a gentle arc that guides the eye and hand naturally. This arrangement ensures that each glass is within comfortable reach and clearly designated for its purpose. It also complements the overall flow of the table, harmonising with the placement of plates, cutlery, and napkins. Small touches Whether you’re hosting a formal dinner or a casual gathering, these small touches elevate the experience and show your guests that every detail has been considered. Once the glasses are in place, serving wine becomes an art in itself. Present each bottle with care, pour with precision, and match the wine to the appropriate glass.  With a thoughtfully arranged table and a graceful presentation, your guests will not only enjoy the meal but also appreciate the ambiance you’ve created.

We’ve scooped a Bronze Medal at the 2025 Wines of Great Britain (WineGB) Awards. We achieved the award for our Ortega in a year where the body saw still wines for the first time surpass sparkling in entries and medals. Ortega wine The WineGB Awards take place each year and we’re thrilled to have been awarded one of the 2025 coveted medals for our 2023 still, white, Ortega wine, which is made with grapes grown at our little vineyard at the foot of the Malvern Hills. Organised and run by the wine industry body, WineGB, the aim and purpose of the awards is to send out a powerful message on the quality, consistency and variety of wines grown solely in England and Wales. It’s wonderful to be showcased alongside our peers, who come from so many different areas and range in sizes from large to micro, like us. Boom time During the past few years, English wines have seen a boom time and this has been shown by the high calibre of entrants this year. The judges sipped their way through hundreds of entries from lots of wonderful wine producers. The standards were very high this year and we scored an amazing 87 points to achieve our Bronze. WineGB is the national association for the English and Welsh wine industry. It represents, leads and supports the sustainable growth of the Great British wine sector. Well-deserved recognition Melania Battiston, Judging Panel Lead, adds: “With still wines, while the quality is undoubtedly high, they are less predictable, which is part of what makes them so exciting. There’s a sense of freedom and experimentation, with winemakers exploring their own styles and, thanks to WineGB, increasingly gaining well-deserved recognition for it.” With more than 500 members, WineGB works to cultivate success across the industry. It supports its three key areas of activity: to ensure strong production and a skilled workforce, to increase sales and safeguard quality, and to enhance the reputation of English and Welsh wine. Exceptional homegrown wine It’s really spectacular being recognised by such an important organisation in our sector. It supports our long-held belief that homegrown wine can taste exceptional. All about the wine The Ortega grape is a combination of Müller-Thurgau and Siegerrebe and the wine we produce is a delightfully perfumed medium dry white wine with refreshing lemon and orange aromas. Crisp and deliciously fruity, it is wonderful on its own, as an aperitif or is an ideal accompaniment to fish dishes. Ortega wines often have hints of Muscat and peach, along with a citrus aroma, which produces a crisp and fruity wine. The judges’ tasting notes described it as having a lemony hue with soft white currant and greengage on the nose. Creamy mid-palate and crisp finish. Interesting texture and weight. Ortega matures early and isn’t susceptible to frosty conditions, making it ideal for wine production in the UK. Buy our wine online You can buy our current wines online from our e-store here . Like to stock us? If any businesses in the area would be interested in stocking and selling our Foxbury Fields Vineyard wines direct to the public, we would love to hear from them too. They can get in touch with us by calling 07974793367 or emailing heather@foxburyfields.co.uk .

Each glass of wine is a unique experience. From the swirl of the glass to the aroma that rises with each sip, every detail contributes to the enjoyment. One often-overlooked aspect of wine appreciation is the glass itself. The way you hold it and the type of glass you choose can significantly elevate your wine drinking experience. Hold with grace Start with how you hold your wine glass. Grasping it by the stem isn’t just about looking refined – it serves a practical purpose. Holding the bowl of the glass transfers heat from your hand to the wine, potentially altering its intended temperature and flavour profile. By holding the stem, you preserve the wine’s integrity while adding a touch of elegance to your presentation. Choose the right glass Not all wine glasses are created equal. The shape and size of the glass can enhance the wine’s aroma, flavour, and overall experience. Here are three tips to help you choose wisely. Match the glass to the wine Different wines have unique characteristics, and the right glass can highlight them beautifully. Sparkling wines, for instance, shine in tall, narrow flutes that help preserve their effervescence. Meanwhile, full-bodied reds benefit from wide bowls that allow the wine to breathe and develop its complex aromas. Mind the rim Trim of the glass affects how the wine flows onto your palate. A wider rim suits bold wines, offering a fuller taste experience. For delicate, aromatic wines, a narrower rim helps concentrate the bouquet, enhancing the sensory pleasure. Pairing with food The right glass can also complement your meal. A wide bowl is ideal for red wines paired with rich dishes like steak or pasta, allowing the wine’s aromas to mingle with the food’s flavours. This harmony between wine and cuisine creates a more immersive dining experience. Sip, savour, celebrate By paying attention to these details, you can transform a simple glass of wine into a moment of indulgence. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet evening, the right glass and a mindful approach can make all the difference. So next time you pour a glass, remember – it’s not just about the wine – it’s about how you enjoy it. Cheers to enhancing every sip! Check out our latest blog to find out more.

Wine is more than just a drink – it’s a ritual, a celebration of culture, craftsmanship, and connection. To truly appreciate wine, one must go beyond taste and aroma and embrace the art of pouring with precision and grace. This seemingly simple act can transform the entire experience, adding elegance and intentionality to every glass. Mastering the pour Mastering the pour begins with how you hold the bottle. Always grip it by the neck, not the body. This prevents fingerprints from smudging the label, preserving the bottle’s presentation – especially important when serving guests or showcasing a prized vintage. It’s a subtle gesture, but one that speaks volumes about your attention to detail. Next, focus on the pour itself. Wine should be poured slowly and steadily, allowing it to gently cascade into the glass. This not only minimizes splashing but also helps release the wine’s aromas, enhancing its bouquet. A controlled pour also ensures the right amount is served – typically about one-third of the glass – to allow room for swirling and aeration. Decanting For red wines, especially older vintages, consider decanting. Decanting allows the wine to breathe, softening tannins and unlocking deeper layers of flavour and complexity. It’s a graceful process that signals reverence for the wine and heightens anticipation for the tasting to come. These techniques aren’t just about aesthetics – they’re about respect. Respect for the wine, the winemaker, and the moment. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet evening alone, pouring with care elevates the experience from routine to ritual. Glass etiquette Once you’ve mastered the pour, the next step is understanding proper wine glass etiquette. From choosing the right glass shape to holding it correctly, every detail contributes to the enjoyment and appreciation of wine.  In the world of wine, grace and precision go hand in hand. By refining your pouring technique, you not only showcase your knowledge but also create a more immersive and memorable experience for yourself and others. So, the next time you uncork a bottle, take a moment to pour with intention – and savour the elegance in every drop.

There’s something undeniably sophisticated about serving wine with finesse. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet evening with friends, mastering the art of wine presentation elevates the entire experience. From how you hold the glass to the way you pour, every detail matters. Holding the wine glass correctly Let’s be honest – no one wants to be that person awkwardly clutching their wine glass like it’s a science experiment. The key to elegance is in the grip. Always hold your wine glass by the stem, using your thumb, index, and middle finger. This not only looks refined but also prevents your hand from warming the wine or leaving smudges on the bowl. The goal is to let the wine shine—visually and aromatically—without interference. Think of it like this: you’re not just holding a glass, you’re holding a moment. A swirl of flavour, a hint of aroma, a sip of sophistication. So, grip that stem with confidence and a touch of sass. You’ve got this. Pouring wine with precision and grace Now that you’ve nailed the hold, let’s talk about the pour. Pouring wine isn’t just about getting liquid into a glass – it’s a ritual. Tilt the glass slightly and pour slowly, allowing the wine to flow smoothly. This controlled pour helps the wine breathe, releasing its full bouquet of aromas and flavours. Precision in pouring also shows respect—for the wine and for your guests. It’s a subtle way of saying: “I care about this experience.” Avoid overfilling the glass; a good rule of thumb is to fill it about one-third full. This leaves room for swirling, which enhances the wine’s aroma and taste. Final thoughts Serving wine with finesse is all about the details. A graceful hold, a thoughtful pour, and a confident attitude can transform a simple glass of wine into an elegant experience. Whether you're a seasoned sommelier or just starting your wine journey, these small touches make a big impact.  So next time you raise a glass, do it with style. Because wine isn’t just a drink – it’s an experience. And you, my friend, are the curator of that moment.