EVENT REVIEW

 

 

Vineyard Tour & Wine Tasting

Thursday 7 August 2008

Time 7.00pm

Astley Vineyard, nr Stourport

Tickets Members: FREE Non-members: £3.00

 

Astley Vineyard is nestled in it’s own valley near Stourport and is a secret gem of a place!  Following the great feedback we had on the wine chosen to accompany the asparagus at the tasting in May, we were delighted to be able to organise a visit.  Astley is one of the oldest ‘modern’ vineyards in the UK owned and run by Jonty Daniels and Janet Baldwin who gave us a great overview of English winemaking including the sheer dedication and ’madness’ required to undertake such a venture in England’s very variable climate!

 

As the rain stopped and the evening summer sun came out over the Severn Valley, we wandered amongst the five acres of vines all of which are hand tended.  Although not organic, Jonty explained Astley’s policy of the minimal use of sprays and treatments which is one reason why their wines have won prizes every year since they took over in the mid-80s.   

 

The tasting of five of Astley’s award winning wines gave us a real feel for the variety of grapes which are grown and the style of wine which can be produced in our cooler climate.

 

To contact the vineyard call 01299 822907

 

 

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