Bluebell Vineyard Estates

West Sussex

Increasing flora and fauna

Bluebell Vineyard Estates is a family run business with the belief that truly exceptional wines can be produced in England. Since our first plantings in 2005, the vineyard has grown to nearly 100 acres under vine, stretching across East and West Sussex including 2 satellite fields. We have a range of soil types including clay, clay loam, sandy loam and sandstone.

Bluebell’s Pledge

Previously, in an effort to increase biodiversity and insect life, we have left headland space around the vineyard leaving natural wildlife to grow. To further this effort this year we will plant wildflowers in these spaces. We are also going to be putting bee hives around the vineyard and owl boxes in our trees.

Protecting the natural order of the animals and insects that live on the vineyard is top priority to us and this year we will example that wherever possible. We strongly believe that it is possible to produce quality wine while maintaining harmony with the natural systems that allow our grapes to flourish.

For the wild flowers we will ensure that the headlands we have left continue to be managed with minimal interference. We are looking into which wildflowers are particularly good for ladybirds, bees and butterflies. Additionally, we will continue to utilise sheep in the vines over winter to reduce the need for mowing even further.

To research for the bee hives we will be in contact with an apiarist to handle the bees on our behalf to ensure that they receive the best possible treatment. The apiarist will also advise us on the purchasing of the bee hives as we want to be assured that the home we get for them is the best possible choice.

Our current plan is to put the owl boxes high in the trees of our woodlands and around the perimeter of the vines but this is all open to change depending on what we find out is preferable for the owls during our research.

Our main focus when undertaking these projects is education. Every decision that we make is going to be based off of what we learn is best for the various animals we are building homes for. A possible next step for the next few years is planting fruit trees around the perimeter of the vines. This will minimise damage to our crop while still providing adequate, scrumptious fruit for the wildlife we’re encouraging. We are so excited to further our endeavours in caring for our eco system in every way possible.

Bluebell Vineyard Estates

Glenmore Farm, Slider’s Ln, Furner’s Green, Uckfield TN22 3RU