Forest Larder

Forest Larder operates Siston Brook Vineyard, an innovative 15-acre site on the north bank of the Siston Brook tributary which feeds the Bristol Avon river. Founded in 2020 by Christopher Sai Eccles and Sophie Jade Hughes, this young vineyard represents the exciting new wave of English wine production.

Forest Larder (Siston Brook Vineyard): Site and Grape Varieties

The four-acre vineyard showcases remarkable diversity, planted with both classic and hybrid varieties: Chardonnay, Bacchus, Pinot Noir, Johanniter, Calardis Musqué, Cabernet Cortis, Rondo, Divico, and Artaban. This extensive selection reflects an experimental approach, exploring which varieties thrive in the Bristol terroir.

Siston Brook is more than just a vineyard. The estate encompasses a soft fruit orchard, spice garden, and fungarium, creating a diverse food and drink production operation. This holistic approach to land use and food production distinguishes Forest Larder from traditional single-focus wine estates.

As a fully licensed Bristol wine and food brand, Forest Larder serves the communities of Longwell Green, Keynsham, and the wider Bristol-Bath area. Their commitment to local production and diverse growing creates a unique offering that connects urban consumers with sustainable rural production.

The vineyard at Willsbridge Hill continues to develop, with recent plantings maturing and production growing. For those interested in witnessing the birth of a vineyard and understanding the full spectrum of sustainable food production, Forest Larder offers an inspiring glimpse into agriculture's future.