The ten hectare vineyard was planted in 1985, the main varieties being Cabernet sauvignon and Semillon with smaller parcels of Sauvignon blanc, Chardonnay, Merlot and Chenin blanc. The useful blending varieties of Malbec and Cabernet franc are also grown.
To cope with the increasing demand for our products, the vineyard was expanded in 1995 by another 4 hectares, with an expected total yield of around 160 tonnes.
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A striking feature of the vineyard is the abundance of vigour in the vines, reflecting the excellent soil, sound preparation and continuing conservation techniques employed over the years.
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The soils are gravelly loam, ideal for grape growing, and much emphasis has gone into the cultivation of cover crops of clover and cereals. These are then turned back into the soil to provide a carpet of mulch around the vines as well as important organic matter. The other benefit of course, is the moisture retained in the soil. Less than 30% of the vineyard is irrigated, and then only to maintain the health of the young vines, although there is ample water stored in the two dams on the property.
A wide trellis system has been developed based on the work of Professor Carbonneau of Montpellier, to expose more leaf area to sunlight, increase air circulation to minimize disease and maintain high quality fruit, whilst substantially increasing yields.
There is only essential use of machinery in the vineyard. For example, the tractor is never driven in the vineyard in winter or wet conditions, so that soil compaction is avoided. There are no pesticides used in the producing vineyard --- the birds and spiders are natural assets. The vines are handpruned and handpicked which enable Fermoy to 'handcraft' a unique product.