The Essex Agricultural Society held a rather special ‘wine and chocolate’ evening last Friday at New Hall Vineyard, Purleigh, just south east of Chelmsford. The evening started with the sampling of a rather lovely med/dry white called Bacchus, aptly names after the Roman god of agriculture (and wine).
Owner Chris Trembath and his team gave the thirsty guests a very informative tour of the wine production facility. Each stage of the tour was complemented with a taster of rose, sparkling then a red – what more would you expect.
The first recorded vineyard at Purleigh was planted in 1120 not far from the existing site of today. Apparently there are over 2,000 acres of land under vine in the UK producing 4.5 million bottles of wine annually. It was agreed by all that the wine from New Hall has deservedly found its place in the wine racks of today.
With glasses still in hand the guests were then treated to a rather special demonstration by Sarah Knights from Chappel Chocolate House on the tempering of chocolate. Sarah explained the process from the rather plain looking cocoa nut through to the exquisite finished product that she has made her living.
The evening was made possible thanks to the generous sponsorship of Graham Harvey and Kayleigh Mackness from NFU Mutual.
Edward Worthy and his agricultural law team would be pleased to hear from you with any farming related queries on 01245 493939 or worthye@gepp.co.uk
This is not legal advice; it is intended to provide information of general interest about current legal issues.
