To mark Old Vine Day, we celebrate something extraordinary – our 54-year-old Kerner vines. Officially recognised by The Old Vine Registry alongside 4,000+ heritage vineyards across 39 countries, we are so proud to be the caretakers of these unique vines.

When the Bache family planted these vines in 1971, English viticulture was considered impossible. Today, these gnarled monuments stand as the UK’s ONLY commercial Kerner planting – a living testament to pioneering spirit and nature’s resilience.

Created in 1929 but kept secret for 40 years, this Riesling hybrid honours poet Justinus Kerner, whose drinking songs still echo through every bottle. From 8,000 hectares in Germany’s heyday to increasingly precious old vine plantings worldwide, Kerner has become a variety that rewards patience.

Although there is now more and more research that proves old vines create measurably better wines, it’s their heritage which matters most to us. The Old Vine Registry, grown from Jancis Robinson’s spreadsheet to a global movement, exists because these vines face constant threat from businesses who chase drinking trends rather than cherish history. Every bottle of Old Vine Kerner, Justinius Kerner, Freya, Vintage Sparkling Kerner, Brigid, or Orange Kerner you enjoy directly supports these 54-year-old survivors.

In an age of climate uncertainty, these deep-rooted veterans offer both genetic wisdom and proven resilience. They’ve survived everything British weather could throw at them, and now that we follow Simonit & Sirch gentle pruning techniques, we hope to extend their already remarkable lives.

You cannot buy time. But you can taste it.