The start of Harvest 2023 – what to look out for

As we approach the most exciting time of the year at our winery, here’s the inside from our expert team on what to expect.

2023 could be a year to remember for English Wine. 

In English Wine, the good years always have to make up for the best. So even in bumper years, like 2022, the balance is always around which wines to release soon – or which to put aside for further ageing (particularly for creating sparkling wines).

2023 has the potential to fill an awful lot of bottles. And although our team won’t be drawn on a specific figure (they’re far too wise for that), it seems all but certain that the English Harvest could be a record-breaker.

Fresh tanks just in time for a record harvest @BalfourWinery Each of these is 25,0000L and it’s all jolly exciting pic.twitter.com/7l0Z0VC8ld

— Fergus Elias (@FergusElias) September 26, 2023

“As we head towards what (could be) a record English harvest, all eyes are firmly on the weather and the vines. We’re hoping for more dry days and Autumn heat to aid the final ripening. It’s the most exciting time of the year as a winemaker, and we can’t wait to fill our presses and kick off vintage 2023. Keep an eye on our Social Media channels for further updates”

Fergus Elias Head Winemaker

How have growing conditions been?

This summer is unlikely to go down in memory as an especially hot or dry one for most of us. But for our grapes, conditions were much more suitable. A (reasonably) dry early summer gave way to a damp August. But that only helped to swell the already-set fruit on our vines.

The main cause for concern has been disease. But at Balfour, we’re lucky to have a superb viticulture team (headed by Cath), who have diligently kept on top of the situation.

What happens during Harvest at Balfour?

Harvest is the epitome of our dedication to quality and tradition. Our meticulous craftsmanship, sustainable farming, and profound respect for the land were brought to life during this time. We carefully handpick each bunch to capture nature’s finest flavours at their peak. A labour-intensive process which promises an exquisite vintage.

Everyone at Balfour pitches in at harvest, but it’s our vineyard and winery teams who work around the clock to bring in, process and care for our grapes. So if you do visit at this time of year, please do bear in mind the pressure and intensity they are working under,

Want to get involved? Join our Harvest Experience Day

Saturday 14th October

8.30 am – 4 PM | £25 pp
Harvest day 2023
Enjoy a morning of picking with our vineyard team, before tucking into a hearty harvest-inspired lunch. There will be an opportunity to taste the fruits of your labour, with some freshly pressed juice straight from the tank.

This special day will also include an exclusive tasting of a new release wine in addition to our team sharing insights about this year‘s harvest.

Limited tickets are still available here.