Andrew Jefford is one of the world’s greatest wine writers. I am privileged to have known him as a close friend since my early days of winemaking.
Photo by Jon Wyand, Wine Photographer
Back in 1990 Andrew was asked by The International Wine Challenge Magazine to write an article about Breaky Bottom each month for the entire year – twelve pages, one page for each month!
Andrew finally located the articles after rummaging through decades of historic archives. It was a delight to re-establish some wonderful memories of those early days. I have chosen to show you his first visit which was in October 1989, just before the harvest.
Please note - Andrew’s article cannot be amended as it is in a format that can’t be altered.
At the bottom of the second column Mike Lowe should actually read Mike Harrison!
Footnote:
2024 is proving to be a difficult year with above average rainfall and heavy cloud-cover. I’m aware that harvest in the UK appears very variable, some vineyards with good looking crops and substantial yields, others hit with Downy and Powdery mildews which have also affected large parts of Europe, including la belle France. Breaky Bottom has been struggling, particularly with the Champagne varieties. At this stage, harvest is difficult to forecast, but I may only pick the Seyval Blanc as the fruit remains clean and is slowly ripening.
Good looking, clean Seyval Blanc
Seyval Blanc - A feast enjoyed by hungry blackbirds and thrushes!
With all best wishes from the Breaky Bottom Team, Peter & Christina