(Alliance News) - Kent-based sparkling wine producer Gusbourne PLC on Wednesday reported a record quantity of crops during the 2019 harvest season, despite experiencing heavy rainfall towards the end of September and most of October.
The firm, which specialises in producing grapes like chardonnay, pinot noir and pinot meunier, said early indications suggest the resulting wine quality from the harvest will be high.
Gusbourne explained: "Conditions throughout the growing season were generally good, in particular during flowering in June and the critical ripening months of July and August. Despite less favourable weather conditions towards the end of the year the team have been able to pick a healthy and ripe crop."
Chief Executive Charlie Holland added: "The 2019 harvest certainly proved to be more of a challenge compared to 2018, given the weather we experienced during the last week of September and throughout most of October. In harvest conditions such as this, it is crucial to assess fruit in the vineyard before picking to ensure what comes into the winery is in good condition. Being in control of our entire operation in the vineyard and the winery proved to be a great benefit."
Shares in Gusbourne were untraded in London on Wednesday morning, last quoted at 68.90 pence each.
By Eric Cunha; ericcunha@alliancenews.com
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Gusbourne (GUS)