Winemaker starts crowdfunding campaign to buy field to meet growth in demand

A winemaker is launching a crowdfunding campaign to buy a small field on the outskirts of the city of Bristol.

Ingrid Bates started Dunleavy vineyards 13 years ago.

It has become a success story in the Bristol and Somerset food and drink scene, with bottles being sold at independent shops as well as Michelin starred restaurants in the area.

But with increased demand, Ingrid needs more land to for vines.

And with land around the city being expensive, she is asking for help through a crowdfunding campaign for £55,000 to buy some land.

In return, people who contribute can get rewards as well as vineyard tours and tasting.

She said: “The plan is to buy a small field, close to the city of Bristol to give our business a long term base where it’s easier for people to engage with us.

“It’ll be a real showpiece for sustainable viticulture.

“At Dunleavy we love trying new things and want to grow exciting and new grape varieties without the use of chemicals.

“We love wildlife and want our vineyard to be a real haven for nature in all its forms.

“Our small, leased plot has given us a great start but there’s so much more we’d like to do.”