The Vineyard
THE PERFECT MIX
Soil & Climate
At Lokkelebery, we benefit from a mixture of free-draining soils, all of which are littered with many Hertfordshire flints. Our site is particularly warm, thanks to the shelter of the Mimram Valley and the aspect of the slope which is South-Westerly.
COMPLETE PERFECTION
The Finest Grapes
Having planted in 2022, we plan to harvest our first bunches of grapes in the Autumn of 2024. This depends on many factors, the vine health, but also the weather, which will also determine the yield.
A careful balance
Working with nature
At Lockley Farm, we work with nature every day to produce our top quality cereals. The vineyard is no exception. Whether we plant pollinators between the vines or use weather stations to guide our care of the vines, we always try to let nature take care of itself, and only help it when it needs us.
The Lokkelebery
Varietals
Pinot Noir
A red wine grape variety grown mostly in cooler climates. The grape is chiefly associated with the Burgundy region of France but also Champagne and English sparkling wines. Tasting notes include strawberry, vanilla (oak), red cherry (warmer climates). Our burgundy clones of pinot noir are specifically used for still rosé, and in a tropical year we may even be able to produce a red wine.
Chardonnay
A green-skinned grape variety used in the production of white wine. The variety originated in the Burgundy wine region of eastern France. Tasting notes for Chardonnay grown in cooler climates include apple and lemon. If we are lucky, we may be able to produce a still Chardonnay wine in a warm year.
Pinot Meunier
A variety of red wine grape most noted for being one of the three main varieties used in the production of Champagne (the others being Pinot Noir and Chardonnay). Pinot Meunier is gaining recognition for the body and richness it contributes to Champagne and English sparkling wines. Tasting notes include red fruits (strawberry, raspberry, cherry), minerality and forest floor (earthy, mushroom).
Pinot Noir Précoce
A dark, blue-black–skinned, variety of grape which is a form of Pinot noir, but differs essentially by ripening earlier than normal. Tasting notes are similar to that of Pinot Noir; fruity (red berries).