Helme Edge Vineyard Limited

Helme Edge Vineyard is a boutique family operation nestled in the foothills of the Pennines, run by three generations of the Calder/Smith family - Alan, Fiona, and Tom. This small Yorkshire vineyard occupies sloping ground on Helme Edge, overlooking the beautiful conservation village of Helme with its distinctive church steeple and rectory.

The setting is truly spectacular. The Pennines loom on the horizon, tracking from West Nab across to Deer Hill and Meltham Cop, providing what the family proudly describes as one of the finest views in Yorkshire. The town of Meltham lies a mile to the south, with the bustling town of Holmfirth - famous for its Last of the Summer Wine connections - just a few miles further away.

The vineyard's wine production focuses on the Solaris grape variety, which thrives in cooler northern climates. Their flagship English Sparkling Solaris is made using the traditional Champagne method, with grapes picked relatively early to ensure acidity. The result is a bright wine with pleasing effervescence and a fruity character that has earned recognition in regional competitions.

The still Solaris is crafted from fully ripened grapes, producing a medium-bodied wine with refreshing citrus and green apple flavours. Their pale pink rosé demonstrates the vineyard's versatility, blending Cabernet Cortis, Rondo, and Solaris to create a medium-bodied wine with notes of fresh red berries.

Helme Edge Vineyard proves that quality English wine production is possible well north of the traditional southern wine regions. The family's hands-on approach, combined with careful variety selection and the site's favourable south-facing slopes, enables them to produce wines that reflect both their Yorkshire terroir and their dedication to craft winemaking. Visits to this charming vineyard offer an authentic glimpse into northern English viticulture against a backdrop of outstanding natural beauty.