The history of viticulture in England goes further into early history than you may first believe. We've been researching the history of English wine and why the North of England is rivalling the established vineyards on the Continent.
"It took almost 2,000 years before the world finally woke up to the fact that England can produce smashing wines." - Oz Clarke
The Romans were the first to commercialise wine across Europe. Although we know they brought vines to newly conquered lands, historians have conclusively identified only one site in Britain in Northamptonshire that had a Roman vineyard. When power in Europe shifted after the fall of the empire, the predominant power of the middle-ages took over and viticulture continued; supported by the Church and powerful cathedral towns through the Dark Ages.
John Walter writes in his book “Wine in England: A Concise Survey” that a warm spell in the 10th and 11th centuries, saw a resurgence in English winemaking. The Domesday Book recorded between 45 and 55 settlements with vineyards below the River Trent. The most productive areas in this period were in the southwest, but vineyards also existed in other regions like Ely and Kent.
"In the time of chronicler Giraldus Cambrensis (Gerald of Wales, c. 1146-c. 1223), [The] archibishops of York and the earls of Gloucester made their own wine in Askham and Tewkesbury respectively." - John Walter
From the middle-ages, UK wine production saw a steady decline beginning with an increase of imported wine during the marriage of Henry II and Eleanor of Aquitaine in 1152 and the unpredictable climate of the 'Little Ice Age' of 1300 to 1850.
It wasn't until the Post-War period that commercial vineyards were re-planted in the UK and a boom since the 2000s has brought vineyards as far north as Yorkshire. So why now, and perhaps more importantly, why up here?
The industry has grown rapidly since the early 2000s, driven by increasing demand for domestic vintages. The area under vine in the UK has tripled since 2000, with over 700 individual vineyards now operating across the country. This growth has been fueled by a recognition of the high-quality wines that can be produced, with English sparkling wines receiving international acclaim.
Many areas in the North of England offer suitable conditions for grape growing including sheltered south-facing slopes with good air flow and well-drained soils.
Our knowledge of grafting and the most suitable varieties allows vineyards based in the North of England to pick great tasting grapes on hardy and disease resistant rootstock.
Viticulture offers a flexible diversification option for landowners. Income comes from more than just wine, revenue from tours, tastings, and special events also generates tourism and new profit streams for farming.
Today, the conditions are ripe for a new era of growth. With a rising market and a focus on quality, new vineyards in the North of England can contribute to the region's economic success while producing world-class wines. If you want your own slice of history, we're always ready to talk. Get in touch at info@thevinehouse.co.uk.
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