Life Among the Vines: A Journey into Ham Street Wines
Nestled just outside the charming village of Hamstreet in Kent, the vineyard is a dream realized—a labor of love that marries passion for the land with a commitment to regenerative and biodynamic farming. What started as an ambitious idea in 2019 has blossomed into 10 vibrant acres of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, Bacchus, and Pinot Gris vines, each plant contributing to the story of growth and sustainability.
When over 16,000 vines were planted, the imagination turned to what a first harvest might feel like, and in 2021, that vision became a reality. By 2022, the inaugural wines were released, showcasing the unique character of that year’s harvest. The philosophy is simple: craft small-batch natural wines that capture the essence of each vintage. With minimal intervention and no unnecessary additions, every bottle reflects the rhythm of nature, meaning no two years—or wines—are ever the same.
The Standouts: Wines with Personality
One highlight of the collection is an orange wine made entirely from Chardonnay. This unconventional gem undergoes 23 days of whole-cluster carbonic maceration before being pressed into a terracotta amphora to age for 10 months. The result is a vibrant wine brimming with complexity and depth.
A Pet Nat—a lively blend of Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, and Bacchus—is another standout. It's a bottle of fizz that perfectly captures the carefree joy of natural winemaking.
Regenerative and Biodynamic at Heart
From the outset, the goal was to do things differently. Certification under biodynamic standards with the BDA was a milestone, but the approach extends beyond labels. By embracing regenerative agricultural principles, the vineyard is not just a source of exceptional wine; it’s a haven for biodiversity and a positive force for the environment.
The Team Behind the Vision
Lucie and Jules, a young husband-and-wife duo, are inspired by pioneers of English natural wine, such as Charlie Herring, Limeburn Hill, Offbeat Wines, and Domaine Hugo. A love for well-farmed products and a healthier food system drove the creation of something meaningful.
Balancing careers with this labor-intensive passion project has been no small feat, but the vineyard’s rhythm—and incredible volunteers who share the journey—keep things grounded. The path prioritizes authenticity over chemicals, soul over slick marketing. Every vine, every grape, and every bottle embodies dedication to wines that resonate with the land and the people who enjoy them.
At Ham Street Wines, wine is not just made; a vision of what sustainable viticulture can achieve is nurtured—one vintage at a time.