Sunnyside Vines

 

I have about 45 vines on my allotment. They are a mix of two varieties, Madelaine Angevine and Muller-Thurgau, both found to be successful in this country. I believe they are crosses of varieties used in Germany, where the climate is similar to ours. The vines are now in their fourth year and starting to get established. I am letting them produce some grapes for the first time this year, which may, just be enough for a couple of bottles of wine. (Whether it is drinkable or not is another matter). The vines are the result of my second attempt at a ‘mini vineyard’. The first try was a disaster; I bought vines grafted onto rootstock and despite my best efforts they all died. ‘Take 2’ was a much cheaper option using cuttings from the Frithsden vineyard, run by Mr and Mrs Latchford. They very generously gave me a tour, advice and all the cutting I could manage. Ted’s Timber yard furnished the support posts. I have one other vine at the top of my adjoining allotment, which was a cutting from one of my first vines that I planted just over 15 years ago, in the back garden of 2 Ravens Lane. One of them is still there!

 

by David Thomas