I was recently rummaging through folders of ancient newspaper cuttings and bumped into this – an article from the ‘Sunday Express Magazine’ (circa 1987) by my old chum Oz Clarke.
I was one of a small number of UK vineyards back then, all of us still winemakers. I feel embarrassed reading much of the text, flatteringly ‘over-the-top’, as I still like to retain a degree of modesty about my achievements.
Nevertheless, it’s a great reminder of Oz’s visit, complete with photos, and the fun we had teasing each other, and chatting not only about wines of the world but our shared love of great music, acting, poetry and prose – and all this nearly 40 years ago!
Footnote:
A team of eight family and friends have just spent the weekend bottling last year’s 2023 crop, modest in size with just under 10,000 bottles, but tasting really good. I hope you enjoy looking at a few photos kindly supplied by James Bainbridge who has been filming at Breaky Bottom for a forthcoming Channel 5 broadcast!
Peter checking the unit prior to bottling
Good friends Joe and Charlie, preparing the bottles prior to crown-capping
Brian making a beautiful stack of the newly bottled 2023 crop
Stephanie and Daisy working at the seven-head filler
Brad, Louisa, Stephanie and Daisy
Paul, Brad, Louisa, Emma and Peter, a general view from above, everybody busy!
With all best wishes from the Breaky Bottom Team, Peter & Christina