WHITLAND ABBEY WINE
According to the great modern philosopher Homer Simpson, “Alcohol is the cause of and the solution to most of life’s problems.”
Alcohol certainly played a part in medieval monastic life. It has been recorded that theAbbot of Whitland was asked to intervene in a dispute at a daughter abbey between the Abbot and the Conversi. The lay brothers had confiscated the Abbot’s horses in retaliation for him withholding their beer. The Abbot of Whitland achieved harmony by returning the beer, with a promise from the brothers that they would moderate their consumption and behaviours.
This week, 27th July to 2nd August is Welsh Wine Week and is the ideal time to blog about Whitland Abbey Wine. I have currently sponsored two vines (more to follow) with one of Whitland Abbey’s nearest Welsh Vineyard, called Velfrey Vineyard. This exciting new vineyard, has only been established since 2017 and is focussing on three wines.
Whitland Abbey wine label will be based on the shape of the Abbey Church pictured above
Pinot Noir – The classic sparkling varietal, its thin skins and low tannin levels, makes it ideal for cooler climates like Wales. Produces high quality complex wines.
Seyval Blanc – A white variety, again well suited to Wales cooler climate. Capable of producing world class, award winning wines.
Solaris – The low acidity and high sugars of this early ripening white grape translates into a delicious single varietal still white wine.
Velfrey Vineyard, is situated on the Velfrey Road between Whitland and Lampeter Velfrey. It is on a gentle south facing and has over 4,000 vines planted over three acres. To achieve world class wines requires care and patience, this means we may not see the wines until Christmas/New Year 2021. Keep following our Whitland Abbey blogs for updates. When the wine is available, blog readers will have the chance to win one of the
first ever bottles of Whitland Abbey Wine.
In the meantime, you can visit or book different options of afternoon teas at Velfrey Vineyard on Wednesdays and Saturdays BY APPOINTMENT ONLY. In addition, why not consider sponsoring your own vine. Details can be found on the Velfrey Vineyard Website, Facebook or via info@velfrey.com
Dave Walsh-Gibbon
29th July 2020
Whitland Abbey Wine vine at the Velfrey Vineyard
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