Whilst we were disappointed to have missed the 2 vineyards on Anglesey on our walk, we knew that we would visit Pant Du on our way home. Well we were virtually driving past the door! Sitting on the glacial south facing slopes in the Snowdon foothills of the Nantlle valley, Craig cum Silyn overlooking the vines, this must be one of the most picturesque vineyard sites ever!
Only a short distance also from the magnificent hills of Yr Eifl (if you've read my
Walking for Velindre blog, you will know those hills already!) means that this vineyard is also quite close to the sea.
What a location! We were welcomed by Richard Huws, the owner, and his wife and although we were a bit early for opening time, they gave us a lovely coffee in their splendid cafe, with their new coffee machine! Very nice too.
The vineyard was planted in 2007 and now has 8 grape varieties, the first wine bottled in 2010. The red wine was initially made with the Regent grape but they have discovered that the Rondo grape is more successful here. Currently they use Three Choirs vineyard as their winery. Unfortunately for us, we were only able to have a taste from the VERY LAST bottle of their red wine but it was really good. It again is a fruity wine, quite like a Beaujolais but with a little tannin. We brought home some white wine....still awaiting a tasting session!
As well as the vines, Richard was telling us about the apple trees he grows too. Many now are from the old variety which was almost extinct, from the variety that grew on Bardsey Island. This variety is proving more successful than some of the earlier cider varieties her had tried and it is great that it is a local old variety which is being rejuvenated! So they also make cider and an award winning apple juice.
And in addition, they also have produced since 2013, their own spring water.
As well as having innovated all the new products here, Richard is also a film cameraman and has 2 proudly won BAFTA awards in his display cabinet.
Well done to them at Pant Du - it is a fantastic venture and with many great products! Looking forward to their next red wine!
And another visit maybe - it is so beautiful!
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