Over 100 guests gathered at The Yard in Chilton Candover on Wednesday, 5th March, for an inspiring evening celebrating English sparkling wine and sustainable viticulture. The event featured a special screening of A Year in the Life of the Vineyard, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the dedication and craftsmanship behind Candover Brook’s award-winning wines.

Following the film, a lively Q&A session gave the audience a chance to hear directly from the team, including Candover Brook’s Co-founder & Owner Mark Sainsbury, Director of Farming & Estates Craig Livingstone, and Vineyard Manager Samuel Philippot. The discussion provided fascinating insights into the challenges and rewards of working with nature, from regenerative farming practices to the impact of Hampshire’s unique chalky soils on the wine’s character.

The film follows the team working tirelessly and doing everything they can to secure a bountiful harvest of perfectly ripe grapes. Like many vineyards in the region, the year was particularly challenging. Mark Sainsbury revealed that “In 2021, we had 171 millimetres of rain between July and October. Last year we had double that,  376 millimetres over the same period. Every year presents us with a new challenge. This year it was a frost before the harvest. There are so many ways you can lose a crop. It’s a humbling experience.”  

Mark added: “We want to produce better wines every year, refining the product rather than growing volumes, which, given my surname, might be something of a surprise. We want people to recognise the quality of what we produce. It was incredibly rewarding to share this film with such an engaged audience. Candover Brook is about more than just wine. It’s a commitment to sustainability and working in harmony with the land, and I’m immensely proud of what we’ve achieved.”

Film-maker Jessica Bassett also shared her thoughts on the experience: “Bringing this story to life has been a real joy. Seeing the passion and dedication of the Candover Brook team firsthand was truly inspiring. I have learnt so much about regenerative farming and the challenges of working with Mother Nature, and I’m thrilled that we could capture that on film.”

Guests were treated to exquisite canapés showcasing local Hampshire produce, including Chalk Stream Trout, Fulling Mill Charcuterie, Alresford Watercress, Lyburn Cheese and The Street Bakeshop perfectly paired with Candover Brook’s sparkling wines.

The team is eager to continue sharing this story with a wider audience. If you are interested in hosting a screening of A Year in the Life of the Vineyard, please get in touch via www.candoverbrook.co.uk.