Better Business / Member profile
Dunleavy Wines joins the Better Business Network
Established by Bristol resident Ingrid Bates fifteen years ago, Dunleavy vineyards have become one of the success stories in the Bristol food and drink scene. Despite being a relatively small set-up, they make and sell thousands of bottles of still rosé, sparkling white and sparkling red wine every year.
Rather than focussing on ‘direct from vineyard’ sales, Dunleavy wines are sold in an almost collaborative style through a host of small, independent shops and restaurants across the local area. Their wines and creative label designs are multi-award winning with their unusual sparkling reds often attracting media attention.
At their North Somerset vineyard they grow modern grape varieties that require minimal chemical intervention through the growing season. Dunleavy wines are made in a conventional way but are low in sulphur and deliveries are made using an electric vehicle. Business owner Ingrid has a background in biology and still maintains a passion for wildlife and nature in everything she does today.
The Dunleavy Vineyard is set against the backdrop of the Mendip Hills – photo: Dunleavy Wines/Felicity Crawshaw
“Having one foot in the city and one in the country gives me an interesting perspective on growing fruit and producing wine. I love the arts, culture and excitement of the urban environment but can also appreciate the beauty and stillness of the surrounding countryside. Similarly with our wine, I love the creativity and excitement involved with creating a fun product but also love the quiet and repetitive nature of working in the vineyard.
“I’ve always been a fan of the work Bristol 24/7 do to promote the amazing small businesses and food scene we have and could see we had a similar ethos with regard to the environment – that’s why I wanted to join the Better Business initiative. I have a real passion for collaborating and connecting likeminded people in urban and rural communities.”
Main photo: Dunleavy Wines/Felicity Crawshaw
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