One Brick at a Time: The Story of Charles Palmer Vineyards

England's wine industry has changed dramatically over the past two decades. What was once considered a niche pursuit has become one of the most exciting and fastest-growing sectors in British agriculture.

During May of this year I spent a few days at Charles Palmer Vineyards, on the outskirts of the historic town of Winchelsea in East Sussex, filming my latest short documentary, One Brick at a Time, made in collaboration with NFU Mutual.

What interested me about the vineyard wasn't simply the wine itself, but the story behind it. Like many successful rural businesses, Charles Palmer Vineyards has been built gradually, through countless small decisions, steady investment and a willingness to take calculated risks.

The film follows founder Charles Palmer and his son Robert and daughter-in-law Chantal as they reflect on the journey from planting the first vines to creating an award-winning vineyard, winery and visitor destination. Along the way, they discuss the challenges of growing a business in a relatively young industry, the importance of maintaining high standards and the opportunities that lie ahead for English wine.

It's also a story about family. As with many of the farms and rural enterprises I visit, there is an ongoing conversation between generations — balancing experience with fresh ideas, while working towards a shared vision for the future.

Spending time at the vineyard, I was struck by the optimism that surrounds the business. Despite the challenges facing agriculture and the wider rural economy, there is a sense that English wine is still only at the beginning of its story.

I hope this film offers a glimpse into the people, place and long-term thinking behind one of Sussex's pioneering vineyards.

Watch the film below.

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Learning to Listen: A New Indie Farmer Film from Montague Farm

From the Farm Gate: Three Dairy Farms Facing an Uncertain Future

Falconhurst Estate: Holding It All Together

Pasture and Profit: Learning from the land and each other