Fifth Trust News

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Harvest time!

30 October 2024


After an exciting year of vineyard activity, we held our annual harvest at Elham Valley Vineyard on Friday 25 October.

A fleet of helpers – students, staff, and 15 volunteers – came down to the vineyard to harvest our Seyval and Pinot Noir grapes. In total, around thirty people were involved and helped to gather the grapes from over 1100 vines.

Despite challenging growing conditions, which led to lower yields compared to last year’s record-breaking season for UK wine growers, the team’s hard work paid off. The harvested grapes were sent to Defined Wines, a local producer in Bridge, located just five miles from our vineyard, helping us keep our carbon footprint minimal. The Seyval Blanc and Pinot Noir grapes will be blended to produce around 1,000 bottles of sparkling white cuvée, created in the methode traditionelle. The wine will be available in the second half of 2026.

Social enterprise manager Peter Stratton said: “Thanks to everyone who helped with this year’s harvest, especially our corporate volunteers who have supported us throughout the year to prepare the vines and grapes. Salut!”

Our vineyard is nestled in the chalky soils of the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. We invite you to visit and explore our new Gift Shack, where you can purchase our current wines alongside a range of gifts, cards, woodwork, and other items handmade by our talented Fifth Trust students. All the proceeds raised are ploughed back into our charity, supporting 170 adults with learning disabilities to lead safe and fulfilling lives.