As the vineyard season progresses, one of the essential tasks for vineyard owners and workers is bud rubbing. While it may seem like a simple task, bud rubbing is a critical part of vineyard management, especially for those growing grapes in Shropshire’s unique climate. Whether you’re new to viticulture or looking to perfect your vineyard’s maintenance routine, understanding the role of bud rubbing can help ensure your vines remain healthy, productive, and free of disease.

In this blog, we’ll explain what bud rubbing is, why it’s important, and how it plays a crucial role in maintaining your vineyard’s health and productivity.

What is Bud Rubbing?

Bud rubbing refers to the process of removing unwanted buds from a vine’s trunk or primary stems early in the growing season. After the vines have gone dormant in winter, they start to show signs of growth with the appearance of small buds. While some of these buds are intended to produce the fruit-bearing shoots, others may grow in undesirable places, such as along the trunk or the main stem, where they won’t contribute to the vine’s overall productivity.

Bud rubbing is the process of carefully removing these unwanted buds by hand or with a small tool, ensuring that the vine’s energy is directed toward the healthy, productive growth of the desired fruiting shoots. This is typically done in early spring before the vine starts putting significant energy into growth.

Why is Bud Rubbing Important for a Vineyard?

Bud rubbing may seem like a small task, but its benefits for the vineyard are significant. Here are the main reasons why this practice is so important:

1. Directs Energy to the Right Shoots

Vines are incredibly resourceful, but they can only produce so much energy. By removing unwanted buds, bud rubbing ensures that the vine’s energy is focused on developing the healthiest and most productive shoots. This helps the plant grow strong, robust fruiting shoots, which are essential for a successful harvest. For a small vineyard in Shropshire, this can mean higher-quality grapes, which translates to better wine.

2. Prevents Disease and Pests

In a vineyard, unwanted buds that are left to grow can become breeding grounds for disease and pests. By removing these buds early in the season, you reduce the potential for fungal infections, mold, and pests like aphids or mealybugs to take hold. This proactive approach to vineyard health can help reduce the need for chemical treatments, ensuring a more sustainable and organic approach to farming.

3. Improves Air Circulation and Sunlight Exposure

Bud rubbing helps maintain proper airflow and sunlight exposure around the vine. Excessive growth along the trunk or main stem can create dense clusters of leaves, limiting air circulation and blocking sunlight from reaching the lower parts of the vine. By removing these unnecessary buds, you allow the vine to grow in a more open, spaced-out way. This promotes better photosynthesis, strengthens the vine, and reduces the risk of fungal growth due to poor air circulation.

4. Maintains Vine Shape and Structure

One of the key components of good vine management is maintaining the shape and structure of the plant. Unruly growth along the trunk or stem can interfere with the vine’s overall form, making it harder to manage, prune, and train. By removing these extra buds, you ensure that the vine develops in a more orderly and manageable way, which will make tasks like pruning and trellising much easier later in the season.

5. Enhances the Quality of the Grapes

Healthy vines lead to better-quality grapes. When a vine is allowed to focus its energy on the best buds and shoots, it produces better-quality fruit. This is especially important for vineyards producing premium wines. By taking the time to carefully remove unnecessary buds, you are increasing the likelihood of having healthy, flavorful grapes that will make great wine, which is critical for maintaining a high-quality vineyard in Shropshire.

When Should Bud Rubbing Be Done?

Bud rubbing is typically performed during early spring, just as the buds begin to swell but before they have fully developed. The exact timing can vary depending on local climate conditions, but for Shropshire vineyards, it’s typically best to carry out this task in late March to early April. It’s important to catch the buds early, as waiting too long can result in damaged shoots or an uneven vine structure.

How to Perform Bud Rubbing

Bud rubbing is a delicate task that requires careful attention. Here’s a basic guide to performing the task:

1. Identify the Unwanted Buds: Look along the main trunk and primary stems of the vine for buds that are not in the optimal position or will not contribute to the vine’s productivity. These are the ones you want to remove.

2. Use Your Hands or a Small Tool: Gently pinch or rub off the buds. Some vineyard workers use a small pair of scissors or pruning shears, but it’s essential to be gentle to avoid damaging the vine.

3. Focus on the Main Stem: Concentrate your efforts on removing the buds along the trunk and primary stems. Keep the healthiest buds that are growing from the cordons (the horizontal arms of the vine).

4. Be Thorough: Go through the entire vine to ensure all unnecessary buds are removed. This is a time-consuming process but crucial for the vine’s health.

5. Check for Signs of Disease: As you rub off the buds, take the opportunity to check for any early signs of disease or pests, and take note of areas that may need closer attention.

Final Thoughts

Bud rubbing may be a small but essential part of vineyard management, especially for a small vineyard. By ensuring that your vines are focusing their energy on the best possible growth, you increase the chances of a healthy, productive crop and high-quality wine. Plus, the practice helps maintain the overall health of the vineyard, preventing diseases and pests from taking hold and improving airflow and sunlight exposure.

The Best Food Pairings for English Red Wine

English red wine is having a moment—and it’s about time. Once overlooked in favour of international reds, English red wines are now earning praise for their elegance, freshness, and food-friendly character. Whether you’re enjoying a light-bodied Pinot Noir or a deeper, oak-aged blend, the right food pairing can truly bring your wine to life.

At Colemere Vineyard, we’re proud to produce English red wines that reflect the unique terroir of Shropshire. So if you’re wondering what to serve with your next bottle, here’s your go-to guide for the best food pairings for English red wine.

1. Roast Chicken and Root Vegetables

English reds—especially lighter styles like Pinot Noir or Rondo—pair beautifully with roast chicken. Add earthy vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and potatoes, and you’ve got an easy crowd-pleaser.

Why it works: The wine’s bright acidity and subtle tannins cut through the richness of the chicken and complement the sweet, roasted veg.

Wine tip: Try Colemere’s light-bodied red slightly chilled for a fresh twist on your Sunday roast.

2. Mushroom Dishes

Earthy flavours like mushrooms, lentils, and truffles are natural partners for English reds. Think mushroom risottos, wild mushroom tarts, or a hearty mushroom and lentil stew.

Pair with:

• Creamy mushroom risotto

• Wild mushroom and thyme tart

• Portobello burgers with blue cheese

Why it works: The umami in mushrooms brings out the savoury, herbaceous qualities in red wine.

3. Lamb and Game Meats

Looking for something richer? Slow-cooked lamb, venison, or duck works beautifully with fuller-bodied English reds—especially those with a bit of oak influence.

Delicious pairings:

• Herb-crusted rack of lamb

• Venison stew with redcurrant jelly

• Duck breast with blackberry sauce

Wine tip: A barrel-aged English red adds structure and depth to stand up to these bold flavours.

4. Cheeses that Love Red Wine

While many cheeses favour white or sparkling wines, there are plenty that pair nicely with English reds. Go for semi-hard and hard cheeses with nutty or savoury profiles.

Great with:

• Mature cheddar

• Red Leicester

• Gruyère or Comté

Serve it with: A glass of Colemere red, some crusty bread, and chutney for the perfect cheese board.

5. Tomato-Based Pasta Dishes

The natural acidity in English red wine makes it a great match for tomato sauces. Whether you’re making a simple spaghetti Bolognese or a vegetarian lasagne, your wine won’t get lost in the mix.

Try it with:

• Spaghetti with tomato and basil

• Aubergine parmigiana

• Baked penne with roasted veg and marinara

Why it works: Acidity meets acidity for a balanced, mouthwatering pairing.

6. Hearty Vegetarian Meals

You don’t need meat to enjoy red wine. English reds go wonderfully with rich, plant-based dishes that feature lentils, beans, roasted veg, or smoky spices.

Perfect pairings:

• Lentil and bean chilli

• Roasted aubergine with tahini

• Beetroot and walnut salad with goat’s cheese

Wine tip: Slightly chill your red to lift the freshness—it’s especially good with plant-based meals.

7. Charcuterie and Tapas

For a relaxed evening in, red wine and nibbles always win. English reds pair especially well with salty cured meats, olives, roasted nuts, and sun-dried tomatoes.

Board inspiration:

• Chorizo, salami, and Parma ham

• Manchego or aged Gouda

• Roasted red peppers and marinated mushrooms

Why it works: The wine’s acidity balances salt and fat while enhancing bold, savoury flavours.

Taste the Difference with English Red Wine

At Colemere Vineyard, we’re proud to champion the rise of English red wines. Grown with care in the Shropshire countryside and crafted with a light touch, our reds are designed to shine alongside food—whether you’re dining in or entertaining guests.

Final Thoughts

English red wine is all about elegance, freshness, and food-friendliness. Whether you’re pairing with a Sunday roast, a cheese board, or a midweek veggie meal, there’s a bottle out there waiting to elevate the moment.

Ready to pour something special?
Explore our range of wine at Colemere Vineyard and discover your next favourite pairing.

The Best Food Pairings for English White Wine

English white wine has grown in popularity in recent years—and for good reason. With its crisp acidity, delicate fruit notes, and refreshing finish, English white wine is a natural match for a wide range of dishes. Whether you’re sipping a glass from a local Shropshire vineyard or exploring bottles from further afield, the right food pairing can elevate every sip.

Here at Colemere Vineyard in the heart of Shropshire, we know just how special a well-matched wine and food experience can be. Here are some of our favourite pairings that highlight the unique charm of English white wine.

1. Fresh Seafood and Shellfish

There’s a reason this classic pairing never goes out of style. The bright acidity and citrus notes found in many English white wines—especially Bacchus or Chardonnay—make them a perfect match for oysters, prawns, scallops, and grilled fish. Try pairing a chilled glass of Colemere White with:

• Lemon and herb grilled sea bass
• Oysters with shallot vinegar
• Prawn and avocado salad

Why it works: The zesty freshness of the wine balances the delicate sweetness of the seafood.

2. Soft Cheeses and Light Charcuterie

English white wine pairs beautifully with soft cheeses like goat’s cheese, Brie, and Camembert. These cheeses complement the wine’s floral and fruity notes without overpowering its subtlety.

Try it with:

• A creamy goat’s cheese tart
• Brie and apple on crusty sourdough
• A light charcuterie board with prosciutto and pickled vegetables

Wine tip: A lightly oaked Chardonnay or an aromatic white blend works best here.

3. Light Chicken and Herb Dishes

For a fresh and flavoursome meal, pair your white wine with herb-roasted chicken or a creamy chicken pasta. English white wines often have herbal undertones that mirror the flavours of thyme, parsley, or tarragon.

Delicious combos include:

• Lemon and thyme roast chicken
• Chicken in white wine and cream sauce
• Herby chicken Caesar salad

Perfect with: Colemere Vineyard’s dry white—its lively acidity cuts through the richness of the dish.

4. Vegetarian Dishes

Vegetarian dishes with fresh vegetables, creamy sauces, or mild spices can shine alongside English white wines. Think spring greens, asparagus, and courgette, all abundant here in Shropshire.

Pair with:

• Asparagus risotto
• Courgette and feta tart
• Spinach and ricotta stuffed pasta shells

Top pick: A vibrant English Bacchus to enhance the garden-fresh flavours.

5. Lightly Spiced Asian Cuisine

English white wine might not be your first thought for Thai or Vietnamese food—but it works wonderfully. Fragrant curries, noodle dishes, and sushi are enhanced by the fresh, slightly off-dry character of many English whites.

Great pairings:

• Thai green curry
• Vietnamese rice paper rolls
• Sushi with ginger and wasabi

Why it works: The wine’s gentle sweetness and acidity balance spice and umami flavours.

Experience English White Wine at Its Finest in Shropshire

At Colemere Vineyard, we’re proud to produce a range of English still and sparkling wines that reflect the unique climate and soil of Shropshire. Our white wines are crisp, aromatic, and crafted to pair beautifully with food.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re preparing a summer dinner party or just enjoying a quiet evening meal, the right food pairing can bring out the best in your English white wine. From seafood to soft cheese, vegetarian dishes to Asian flavours, there’s a perfect match waiting for every bottle.

The Art and Science of Vineyard Pruning: Unlocking the Potential of Every Vine

Pruning is one of the most important jobs in a vineyard. Here at Colemere Vineyard, tucked away in the beautiful Shropshire countryside, we know that proper pruning is the secret to growing top-quality grapes and making delicious wines. But what exactly is pruning, and why does it matter so much?

In this blog, we’ll take you through the basics of vineyard pruning—what it is, why we do it, and how it helps us craft the wines you love.

What is Vineyard Pruning?

In simple terms, vineyard pruning means trimming back the previous year’s growth to guide how the vine grows in the next season. We do this during the vine’s dormant period—usually between January and March—when the plant is having its winter rest.

Why bother? Well, if we left the vines to grow wild, they’d produce too many leaves and too much fruit, which would lower the quality of the grapes. Pruning helps us keep the vines healthy, the grape clusters perfect, and the vineyard easy to manage.

Why is Pruning Essential for Quality Wine?

Pruning isn’t just about keeping things tidy—it has a direct impact on the grapes and the wines they become. Here are a few reasons why it’s so important:

1. Better Quality Grapes: By controlling how many grape clusters the vine produces, we make sure the plant focuses its energy on fewer but better grapes.
2. Perfect Ripening: With fewer leaves and shoots to feed, the vine can put all its effort into ripening the grapes. This means better sugar levels, balanced acidity, and more concentrated flavors.
3. Healthier Vines: Less foliage means better air circulation and more sunlight, which helps prevent fungal diseases that thrive in damp, shady spots.
4. Vine Longevity: Regular pruning keeps the vines in good shape for the long haul—healthy vines can produce amazing grapes for decades!

Key Pruning Methods

There are a few different ways to prune a vineyard, depending on the grape variety and the local climate. At Colemere Vineyard, we use methods that work best for our vines and Shropshire’s weather.

1. Spur Pruning: This involves cutting back the vine to short spurs with 1-3 buds. It’s a great method for controlling growth and is commonly used in cooler climates.
2. Cane Pruning: With cane pruning, we leave a couple of longer canes (each with 8-12 buds) to produce next season’s growth. This works well for vigorous vines and helps us manage yields.
3. Guyot System: A popular form of cane pruning where one or two canes are trained along a horizontal wire. It’s perfect for maximizing sun exposure and air circulation.
4. Double Cordon: This spur-pruning method uses two permanent horizontal arms. It’s ideal for keeping things organized and controlling vine vigor.

Timing Matters: When Do We Prune?

Getting the timing right is crucial. We prune our vines during their dormant period—between January and March—when they’re in their winter slumber. This reduces stress on the plant and helps prevent disease. Prune too early, and the buds might sprout too soon; prune too late, and it can delay the vine’s growth.

The Vineyard’s Annual Cycle and Pruning

Pruning is just the first step in the vine’s yearly journey. Here’s a quick look at what happens throughout the year:

• Winter (Dormancy & Pruning): The vines rest, and we prune to guide their future growth.
• Spring (Bud Break): New shoots start to emerge as the weather warms up.
• Summer (Flowering & Fruit Set): Tiny blossoms develop into grape clusters.
• Autumn (Harvest): We pick the ripened grapes and start the winemaking process.

Pruning for the Future

At Colemere Vineyard, we see pruning as both a craft and a science. Every cut we make shapes the future of our vines and the wines they produce. With careful pruning, we can create elegant still, sparkling, and dessert wines that reflect the unique character of Shropshire.

English Sparkling Wine vs. Champagne: What’s the Difference?

When you think of sparkling wine, Champagne might be the first thing that comes to mind – but did you know that English sparkling wine is making waves as a serious contender? At Colemere Vineyard, nestled in the beautiful Shropshire countryside, we take pride in crafting sparkling wines that stand shoulder to shoulder with their French counterparts. But what exactly sets English sparkling wine apart from Champagne? Let’s uncork the facts!

1. The Origin Story: England vs. France

The most obvious difference? Location, location, location. Champagne can only be called “Champagne” if it comes from the Champagne region of France. English sparkling wine, on the other hand, is produced right here in England – including at Colemere Vineyard, where our carefully nurtured vines deliver vibrant, fresh flavors unique to the Shropshire terroir.

2. The Climate Factor

Believe it or not, southern England shares a similar climate to Champagne. Cool temperatures are ideal for growing the classic grape varieties used in sparkling wine, like Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier. Shropshire’s temperate climate and rich soil allow us to cultivate grapes with crisp acidity and bright fruit notes – perfect for crafting elegant sparkling wines.

3. The Traditional Method

Both Champagne and English sparkling wine use the traditional method (also known as “méthode traditionnelle”) to achieve those delicate bubbles. This labor-intensive process involves a secondary fermentation in the bottle, creating complex flavors and that signature fizz.

At Colemere Vineyard, we follow this time-honored technique to ensure every bottle of our sparkling red, white, and rosé wines delivers the same luxurious mouthfeel and fine mousse you’d expect from a premium bubbly.

4. Flavour Profiles: What to Expect

While Champagne is known for its toasty, nutty flavors and hints of citrus, English sparkling wines often showcase fresher, fruit-forward notes thanks to the cooler climate. At Colemere Vineyard, our sparkling wines balance zesty citrus and orchard fruit aromas with a refined, creamy texture – perfect for celebrating any occasion.

If you’re after something truly unique, our sparkling red wine offers a bold, rich twist on tradition. It’s a showstopper for dinner parties and pairs beautifully with hearty dishes.

5. Sustainability and Craftsmanship

English vineyards, including Colemere, often prioritise sustainable farming and small-batch production, allowing for greater attention to detail. Every bottle of our sparkling wine is a reflection of the care and craftsmanship that goes into every stage – from vineyard to glass.

6. Price Point: Affordable Luxury

While vintage Champagne can command sky-high prices, English sparkling wine offers exceptional quality without breaking the bank. Our sparkling range at Colemere Vineyard provides an affordable way to enjoy artisan-crafted bubbles without sacrificing flavour or finesse.

Ready to Taste the Difference?

If you haven’t experienced the magic of English sparkling wine, there’s no better time to explore. At Colemere Vineyard, our collection of still and sparkling wines – including our rare sparkling red – is crafted with passion and precision, offering you a true taste of Shropshire. The sparkling rosés also a personal favourite, followed by our elegant sparkling white.