Meet VineWorks at The Vineyard & Winery Show · 25 November 2026 · Stand M49

Is your land suitable for viticulture?

Establishing a vineyard starts with understanding your land. Before committing to development, you need a realistic assessment of its potential for growing grapes in the UK.

Our initial consultation and land suitability assessments give you clear, honest guidance from the outset. Every project is overseen by our Head of Vineyard Establishment and draws on years of practical experience across UK vineyard sites.

getting started

If you are thinking of starting a vineyard, the first step is straightforward. 

We’ll askyou to provide an outline of the land you’re considering for vineyard development. From there, we carry out desk-based research, followed by a site visit.

This is a chance to walk the site together, assess the obvious opportunities and constraints, and talk through your initial plans. We keep it practical and open, giving you a realistic view of what’s achievable.

A DETAILED ASSESSMENT OF YOUR LAND

If your site shows potential, the next step is a detailed site evaluation for a fixed fee.

We assess soil type and structure, aspect and elevation, local climate and frost risk, alongside other factors that could affect vineyard performance.

The findings are brought together in a Viticultural Suitability Report. This informs our recommendations for grape varieties, clones and rootstocks suited to your site and business objectives.

At this stage, we’ll work through the key decisions that define your project.

UNDERSTANDING YOUR AMBITIONS

Land suitability is only part of the picture. Your plans for the vineyard also shape the recommendations we make.

We’ll discuss whether you intend to produce still or sparkling wine, grow grapes for another producer or make your own wine, and develop your own brand. We’ll also consider any future ambitions for a winery, tourism or direct sales.

Together, these conversations help connect the potential of your land with the vineyard you want to create.

ADVICE ON STARTING A VINEYARD

Explore practical articles written by our expert viticulturists to help you make informed decisions, from assessing your land to preparing for planting. For more free guidance, browse the VineWorks article archive in our Advice section.

TAKE THE FIRST STEP

Considering land for a new vineyard? Talk to us about your site and your plans, and we’ll help you understand the next steps.