Vintage Report 2025
The 2025 growing season at Newick Wine Estate will be remembered as both our first cropping year and an exceptional vintage. It was characterised by above-average heat and low rainfall, recording 1,088 growing degree days compared to 888 in 2024, alongside 507 mm of rainfall versus 807 mm the previous year. While conditions were largely favourable, the season presented notable challenges at both the beginning and end of the vintage.
Budburst occurred earlier than in many surrounding vineyards, taking place in the first week of April. This early start increased exposure to spring frost, a persistent risk for UK wine producers. Several frost events in April and May required active intervention to protect the crop. Thanks to timely responses, damage across the estate was limited. A warm spring supported strong early shoot growth. However, the exceptionally dry conditions created challenges in managing competition from the undervine zone, requiring close attention to vineyard floor management during this period.
Flowering conditions were excellent and progressed rapidly, resulting in reliable and even fruit set across the site. This translated to bunches developing uniformly and ultimately ripening predictably, a critical factor when aiming for full maturity in the UK’s climate. Canopy management carried out immediately after flowering proved particularly important as humidity increased later in the summer, helping to maintain airflow and limit disease pressure.
Summer conditions continued in a similar pattern, punctuated by occasional heavy downpours. These provided short-term relief from water stress and opportunities to manage undervine growth, while also increasing disease pressure within the canopy. Careful monitoring and timely intervention ensured the vines reached veraison in good condition.
Veraison took place in early to mid-August, allowing extended ripening through August and September. Despite heavy rainfall later in September, along with pressure from wasps and spotted wing drosophila, the fruit achieved high levels of maturity. Flavour development was strong across all varieties, providing clean, expressive fruit well suited to the style of wines we aim to produce at Newick Wine Estate.