How One Man Transformed a Derelict Farmhouse into a Thriving Vineyard
Mike Phillips turned a neglected farmhouse in Cross Gates into a successful vineyard, showcasing local efforts and unique wines.
Cross Gates, Wales, Vineyard, Blue Moon Vineyards, Wine
Cross Gates: Mike Phillips bought a rundown farmhouse in 1992. He turned it into Blue Moon Vineyards. It took years of hard work and planning.
In four years, he got permission to restore the farmhouse. Some parts are from 1690. The vineyard idea came in 2012 after a trip to the Pyrenees.
He noticed the plants there looked like those in Mid Wales. So, he decided to plant vines on his land, even though it was tough land for grapes.
In 2014, he planted 1,200 hardy grape vines. Sadly, slugs destroyed about 200 of them. But now, he has around 3,000 vines on 3.5 acres.
He picks and presses the grapes within 12 hours in Ledbury. Then, they mature in vats. All the work is done by hand because of the slope.
Mike mentioned the high costs involved. The UK Government takes over £2.60 in tax for each bottle sold. Imported wines only pay about five pence in their home countries.
He also shared that oak barrels from France cost £800 each, plus £600 in import tax. Mike tries to keep his business local.
He’s proud that the silver labels for Blue Moon wine are made nearby. Local sheep wool helps control weeds in the vineyard.
Mike is working on getting seven licenses, including Food Hygiene and Alcohol licenses. He’s committed to making his vineyard a success.
At a recent Howey WI meeting, members learned about his vineyard. They even tasted the wines, with the white wine being their favorite.