High drama for Off the Line as they get the 2023 harvest in
20th October
Although every year brings different challenges in the world of wine production. 2023 certainly dealt Off the Line Vineyard, in Hellingly, East Sussex some surprises. A double decker bus catching fire close to the vineyard entrance in the middle of harvest could certainly not have been predicted! This led to the vineyard being inaccessible by road and their internet cables being destroyed.
“Thanks to Sussex Highways for pulling out the stops to get the road resurfaced and re-painted within 24 hours. Fortunately, no one was injured and our picking schedule was not disrupted. We’re pleased to say harvest 2023 is in and it’s been another bumper one! ” commented Anne-Marie, Off the Line Vineyard
Bumper crop, looking good for 2023!
They now have the grapes pressed and wine fermenting in tank. Due to warm weather last summer, bunch weights were the biggest ever. The quality of fruit is very good thanks to some much needed warm weather in September which means that the wines will be good.
Harvest is a combination of expertise in the shape of Rob from Vinescapes (pictured below) who helped with harvest operations and also the professional pickers from Romania.
Kristina Studzinski, co-founder of Off the Line Vineyard confirmed:
“Everything ran smoothly to get our fruit picked at optimal ripeness and transported to the winery for us to process. It’s always a joyful moment when the juice starts to flow from the press!”
