Preparing for harvest
In the run‑up to harvest, the team has been incredibly busy in the vineyard, working to ensure the very best quality grapes for this year’s wines. One of the key jobs at this stage is fruit reduction. While a generous crop is always exciting, our priority is producing high‑quality grapes that will make exceptional wine.
By carefully reducing the number of bunches on each vine, we allow the plants to focus their energy, sugars and nutrients into the remaining fruit. This results in more concentrated flavours, improved balance and, ultimately, a finer wine. It also supports vine health: removing crowded clusters improves airflow through the canopy, helping to prevent disease. Clearing damaged or insect‑affected fruit stops rot from spreading. It also protects younger vines — such as our Pinot Noir — from becoming exhausted by carrying too much fruit too soon.
September at the Bulari Bar
September marks the final Friday Nights at the Bulari Bar for 2026 — and what an incredible summer it has been. We have loved welcoming so many of our local friends and neighbours, along with visitors from far and wide. From birthday celebrations and reunions to relaxed end‑of‑week meet‑ups, it’s been a joy to be part of your Friday traditions.
September Line‑Up
Friday 4 September — Smiths of Bourton (handmade burgers)
Friday 11 September — The Table by Tania (international flavours) & Cotswold Cattle Company (smash burgers)
Friday 18 September — BBQ Street Box (BBQ and street food)
We’re seeing out the summer in style with live music on Friday 18 September — the perfect way to celebrate a successful season at Poulton Hill Estate.
We would love to welcome you back for these final Fridays and raise a glass to a wonderful summer shared with our community.
Help out with harvest
Last year’s harvest was record-breaking, and the signs are looking good for 2026. We would love to welcome you to help us to bring the harvest home. We provide clippers and instructions, just wear some sturdy shoes and some tough gloves, as the clippers are very sharp and the grape juice is sticky! You can help for a few hours or an entire day. Snacks, tea and coffee and a harvest lunch will be provided. Although we cannot give precise dates for the harvest yet, we will contact volunteers nearer the time. Drop us an email with your name and contact details to info@poultonhillestate.co.uk, with the subject line Harvest 2026. There is no obligation to help if you ask to be put on the harvest helpers list.
