Vineyard Vision
The vision of the team at Carvers Hill Estate is to establish a reputation for making great English wines, complemented. By a world class winery ‘destination’ and visitor centre.
Location
The land at Carvers Hill comprises a bank of South facing slopes looking back across the valley to Rivar Hill. The topography of the land and soil suitability (loam over chalk) suggested a potential for viticulture. With the experience of owning a vineyard in Bordeaux, and the emerging quality and value of the English wine making industry, a decision was taken to assess the site at Carvers Hill for the potential establishment of a vineyard.
Topography
Specialist advisors, were appointed to carry out a detailed evaluation of the land and climate at Carvers Hill. This included an assessment of the site and soil amelioration requirements, vineyard design, variety and planting, material recommendations and project management
The site at Carvers Hill was considered as having good potential for viticulture. The main benefits were the 'terroir' (loam over chalk), the South facing aspect (maximum solar exposure) and the topography (gentle slopes to valley) which helps with frost mitigation.
Carvers Hill Timeline
Spring 2023
Emma Rice appointed as Wine making consultant / Director
Spring 2022
Vines have started to develop well and we have not been affected from frost.
Summer 2021
The vines have taken well.
Spring 2021
21,500 vines planted over 5.55 ha in 2 blocks
Vines planted using a laser guided machine over 3 day
Vine spacing of 1.2m and alley width of 2.2mt.
Winter 2020
Due to the abundance of wild animals in the valley (rabbits, deer, badger), preventative fencing was erected around the 2 blocks before the team at Upper Horns Farm began cultivating the land ahead of planting.
Summer 2020
Varietals of Pinot Noir, Pinot Noir Precoce, Chardonnay, Pinot Menuière were selected - Focus being on red and rose with a small amount of sparkling if required.