English Wine Week 15th – 23rd June 2024 – Celebrating the best of British wine

From Vine to Wine

Raise a Glass (of English Wine) to Celebrate: Why English Wine Week Matters

Wine lovers, rejoice! English Wine Week is upon us, a glorious time to clink glasses and celebrate the fantastic wines produced right here in England. But beyond the delicious excuse to indulge, there are some compelling reasons why this week holds special significance, especially when it comes to supporting our local workforce.

A Toast to Quality and Local Jobs

For years, English wine might have been an afterthought. However, the tide has turned dramatically. English vineyards are now crafting world-class wines, particularly sparkling wines that rival the best Champagnes. Award recognition and critical acclaim are becoming commonplace, with English wines consistently punching above their weight. English Wine Week is a chance to celebrate this remarkable achievement and growing reputation, but also the increasing role UK workers play in this success.

Supporting Local and Sustainable: Jobs and the Environment

By choosing English wine, you’re not only supporting local businesses, but also contributing to a more sustainable future with a focus on creating jobs within the UK. Many English vineyards are small, family-run operations that prioritise sustainable practices and are increasingly turning to a domestic workforce. English Wine Week is a fantastic opportunity to discover these hidden gems and connect with the passionate UK viticulturists and winemakers behind the wines you enjoy.

A Celebration of Innovation and Opportunity

The English wine industry is brimming with innovation. Winemakers are experimenting with grape varietals,fermentation techniques, and aging methods. This spirit of exploration is leading to exciting new styles and pushing the boundaries of what English wine can be. English Wine Week is a chance to explore this diversity and discover new favorites that might just surprise you, all while supporting the growing opportunities within the UK wine industry.

A Taste of Place and Community

English wines are a unique expression of the English terroir – the combination of soil, climate, and topography that shapes the character of a wine. From the chalky slopes of Sussex to the rolling hills of Kent, each region imparts its own subtle nuances on the final product. English Wine Week is an invitation to explore this rich tapestry of flavors and discover the unique stories each bottle tells, while celebrating the growing community of UK workers crafting these exceptional wines.

How to Get Involved in English Wine Week

There are countless ways to participate in English Wine Week. Visit a local vineyard for a tour and tasting (we can definitely recommend a selection in both Kent and Sussex), explore the special offers at your favorite wine merchant featuring English wines, or host an English wine tasting party with friends. Share your experiences on social media using #EnglishWineWeek and spread the love for these fantastic wines and the dedicated UK workforce behind them.

So, this English Wine Week, raise a glass (of English wine, of course!) to celebrate quality, support local producers,discover the exciting future of English wine, and appreciate the growing role UK workers play in this thriving industry. You might just be surprised by the hidden gems waiting to be uncorked, both in the glass and within the dedicated workforce.

Recruitment South East: Picking Up on a Flourishing Industry

Recruitment South East (RSE), a GLAA-licensed recruitment agency, is at the forefront of connecting seasonal workers with exciting opportunities in the burgeoning viticulture industry across Sussex and Kent.

As the taste for English wines continues to grow, so too do the vineyards that cultivate them. This flourishing industry presents a unique opportunity for RSE to place enthusiastic and hard-working individuals in rewarding seasonal grape picking roles.

The Allure of the Grape Harvest:

These positions offer more than just a pay check. Here’s why working the UK grape harvest is appealing to many Brits:

Be Part of Something Special: Contribute to the success of local vineyards and witness the magic of transformation – from vine to bottle.
Embrace the Outdoors: Immerse yourself in the picturesque landscapes of Sussex and Kent, breathing in fresh air and soaking up the sunshine.
Join a Vibrant Community: Work alongside a friendly team, forging connections and sharing the camaraderie of a seasonal harvest.
Flexible Work: The seasonal nature of the harvest allows you to tailor your work schedule to your needs, there is also further seasonal work available on the vineyards throughout the year such as winter pruning, bud rubbing, wire lifting etc.
RSE: Your Gateway to a Rewarding Harvest

RSE understands the importance of a reliable and efficient workforce for both vineyards and seasonal workers. They act as a bridge, ensuring a smooth and successful harvest season for all involved.

Here’s what RSE offers:

GLAA Licenced: Peace of mind knowing you’re working with a reputable and compliant agency.
Experienced Placement: Expert staff connect you with the perfect vineyard based on your skills and preferences.
Competitive Rates: Enjoy fair compensation for your hard work during the harvest season – £12.82 per hour inclusive of holiday pay.

If you’re looking for a unique and rewarding way to spend your summer, or even a few weeks, then look no further than Recruitment South East. Join the growing number of UK workers embracing the opportunity to be a part of the UK’s flourishing viticulture industry. Grape picking harvests start mid/late September each year, followed by a winter pruning season which starts Dec/Jan for several months, followed by bud rubbing and wire lifting work which normally commences mid-May.

If you would like to get involved then please contact us as we are currently recruiting for grape pickers to work this year’s harvest at vineyards throughout Sussex and Kent;

seasonalworkers@recruitmentsoutheast.co.uk

Telephone Sharon or Cam on 01580 234800.