LENCHES VINEYARD
At Hill View Farm, we pride ourselves on cultivating a diverse range of grape varieties, enhancing our harvest prospects and allowing us to create unique blends.
Our white grape varieties include Bacchus, Sauvignac, Souvignier Gris, Solaris, Seyval, and Chardonnay, all selected for their robust resistance to disease.
For our red grapes, we grow Cab Noir, Dornfelder, Pinot Noir, and Rondo. This variety not only enriches our winemaking potential but also ensures the quality and resilience of our vines.
English Sparking Rosé
One of our signature craft wines is our English Sparkling Rosé, created with the finesse and effervescence reminiscent of Champagne or Prosecco, achieved through natural fermentation.
This delightful English sparkling wine pairs beautifully with a variety of foods, making it a versatile choice for any occasion. Its crisp and refreshing notes complement seafood dishes such as oysters, smoked salmon, and prawn cocktails. The subtle fruitiness of our Sparkling Rosé also enhances the flavours of light salads, goat cheese, and prosciutto.
For those with a sweet tooth, it pairs wonderfully with berry desserts and creamy pastries. Whether you're hosting a summer garden party or a festive celebration, our English Sparkling Rosé adds a touch of elegance to any meal.
OUR CRAFT WINE MAKING PROCESS - CULTIVATING THE FUTURE
A successful grape harvest at Hill View Farm relies on various factors, including selecting hardy grape varieties, favourable weather conditions, and diligent nurturing of the vines. Grapes are primarily self-pollinating, with the process aided by wind and insects that help transfer pollen from the male parts of the flower to the female parts.
Once pollination occurs, it takes about 100-120 days for the grapes to grow and reach maturity, depending on the specific variety and climatic conditions. Harvesting typically begins in late summer to early autumn. After the grapes are carefully picked, they are immediately processed to begin the winemaking journey.
The winemaking process involves crushing the grapes, fermenting the juice, and then pressing the fermented must to separate the wine from the solids. This entire initial winemaking phase can take a few weeks to a few months. Following this, the wine is aged to develop its flavours and complexity. The maturation period varies greatly depending on the type of wine being produced, but for our English Sparkling Rosé, it generally takes an additional 1-3 years.
In summary, from grape growing to a bottle of wine ready for your table, the process can span roughly 2-4 years, with each step carefully managed to ensure the highest quality and flavour in every glass.