Welcombe Hills Vineyard….almost too handy!!

Welcombe Hills Vineyard is a family business run by husband and wife team, Jonathan and Nichola Kelsey.

They hold tours and tastings throughout the summer months, they are very popular so make sure you book up in advance. It’s just a short walk along the lane so perfect if you want to relax, enjoy some stunning views and award winning wines. 

The land itself was formerly farmed by the Shakespeare family, and more recently used to be part of Snitterfield Fruit Farm. To this day, it is still surrounded by plum and apples orchards, as well as a strawberry field. Perched at the top of Welcombe Hills on rocky clay terroir the site has great drainage sloping down to the river Avon. 

An initial area of half an acre was planted in 2001 with Pinot Noir together with Dornfelder and Bacchus. In 2003, the vineyard was extended with a second planting of 1200 more vines (Bacchus, Auxerrois, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir Precoce) which were harvested for the first time in 2007. There is also a third area of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir Precoce, planted in 2010.  ​In 2020 it was expanded the vineyard planting another 3,500 Chardonnay, Bacchus & Pinot Noir vines taking Nichola and Jonathan to a total planted area of 4.5 acres and 6,000 vines.

Welcombe Hills Vineyard has established a reputation at both local and national level for producing award-winning wines of high quality.  Recognised with many awards including 5 silver medals in 2021 from Wine GB and the IEWA. All themed beautifully with Shakespearean names. 

All the neighbours were invited along to watch the blessing of the vines. Sure that this, combined with sunshine, will make for another stunning crop this year! 

You can buy bottles direct or from our local village shop, Snitterfield Stores and also The Farm Stratford. Perfect to enjoy on your holidays or take home as gifts from the area.