Flint Vineyard in South Norfolk, known for producing some of England’s most interesting sparkling and still wines, won Best Food and Drink Producer at this year’s Norfolk Rural Business Awards. Founder Ben Witchell explains what the awards means
Flint Vineyard, which is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year and is based in the Waveney Valley, won Best Food and Drink Producer at the Norfolk Rural Business Awards yesterday. Ben Witchell founded the vineyard in Earsham near Bungay after committing to the life of a winemaker in 2009. From identifying a site in one of the UK’s driest and sunniest corners of South Norfolk to building a winery from the ground up, Ben shaped Flint into one of the country’s most innovative wine producers. Since the first plantings in 2016, the vineyard has grown steadily to 18 hectares, with more vines being planted this year.
The winery balances tradition with cutting-edge technology, pioneering the Charmat method of sparkling wine production in the UK. Its wines are stocked by a range of respected retailers from Bakers & Larners and Jarrolds to Fortnum & Mason, as well as being available online through Ocado and Virgin Wines. They are also featured on the wine lists of leading local pubs and restaurants, including Benedicts and The Assembly House in Norwich, and the Chestnut Group throughout East Anglia.
The vineyard itself is a welcoming hub for locals and visitors alike, with Flint Kitchen offering seasonal lunches Wednesday to Sunday; live music party nights on Flint Fridays and chilled afternoon vibes on Flint Sundays.
The Norfolk Rural Business Awards, which take place on the second day of the Royal Norfolk Show, is now a firm fixture on the county’s calendar. According to Judges’ feedback in the Best Food and Drink Producer category, sponsored by Fountain Fresh, Flint Vineyard was selected as this year’s winner in recognition of its exceptional produce, its contribution to Norfolk’s outstanding food and drink scene, and its role in shaping the future of English winemaking. Its commitment to the quality of its wines, alongside its innovation and sustainability, was evident throughout every stage of the business, from its growing techniques and carefully selected hybrid vine varieties to its winemaking methods and bottling operation.
Ben Witchell says: “Norfolk, and particularly the Waveney Valley, is rich with innovative and nationally acclaimed food and drink businesses. We’re proud to stand among them and hope that recognition like this award attracts more visitors to the area so that all may thrive.”
The Norfolk Rural Business Awards are organised by Norfolk County Council in partnership with the Royal Norfolk Agricultural Association. Visit Flint Vineyard.
Featured image of Ben Witchell, Founder of Flint Vineyard, by Teele Dunkley
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