HERD IT THROUGH THE GRAPEVINE: WOOLLY WORKERS FLOCK TO TANHURST ESTATE
SUSTAINABLE WINE GROWING
Have you noticed a beautiful flock of sheep grazing freely among the vines at Tanhurst Estate? They are our natural lawn mowers, and their droppings make great organic fertilisers.
We’re dedicated to sustainable winegrowing and sheep grazing is a traditional way to control weeds, improve soil, reduce chemicals and foster biodiversity.
This eco-friendly approach to viticulture leads to healthier soil, happier vines and better wines.
Of course, we need to manage the sheep carefully. The flock came to the vineyard after harvest and will graze over the winter until early spring before bud break. We don’t want them eating our valuable ripening grapes or new leaves!
FIVE WAYS SHEEP BENEFIT OUR VINEYARD
• Sheep keep grass low which reduces tractor and mower use, saving fuel and minimising soil compaction between the rows. This allows for better water infiltration and aeration for the roots.
• Sheep control weeds which reduces competition with the vines for water and nutrients and eliminates the need for pesticides.
• Sheep provide natural fertiliser with their manure and urine, enriching the soil with organic matter and nutrients.
• Sheep help to prune, by removing leaves and suckers and improving airflow around the vines.
• Sheep boost biodiversity by fostering a richer habitat for beneficial insects, pollinators like wild bees and soil organisms, which are crucial for a balanced ecosystem.
Wishing ewe all a happy new year and do come and meet our local flock if you visit us at Birketts Farm to taste and buy our wine any Saturday from 10am to 3pm.