Hampshire-based vineyard becomes first in UK to achieve Regenified certification
9th October 2024
Waitrose’s orchard and vineyard at the Leckford Estate in Hampshire have become the first in the UK to achieve Regenified certification.
The vineyard has been recognised for its commitment to grow produce, grapes, apples and pears, in a way that is more friendly towards nature.
A spokesperson for Leckford Estate said: “It is a significant step towards having a permanent centre of excellence at our Leckford farm – a goal of the partnership – providing practical tools, workshops, online resources and mentoring to help farmers to make the shift to regenerative agriculture.”
Producing high-quality products and caring for environment
In 2021, Leckford Estate announced that the business will use the farm to drive change by experimenting with a variety of nature-friendly farming practices.
By adopting nature-friendly techniques, such as the use of florally diverse species in the alleys between the rows of apple trees and vines and the replacement of herbicides with the use of mechanical weed trimmers, the vineyard and orchard aim to not only produce exceptional products but also contribute to the overall health of the environment by increasing plant diversity and minimising soil disturbance.
Products using fruit from this harvest onwards, such as the Leckford Estate Brut, will have the Certified Regenified seal, highlighting the achievement to customers, the company said.
Andrew Hoad, head of the Leckford Estate, said: “We are incredibly proud to be the first vineyard and orchard in the UK to achieve Regenified’s certification.
“Our commitment to regenerative farming reflects our belief that producing high-quality products and caring for the environment go hand in hand.
“This builds on our regenerative farming journey, and we hope to see more farmers embrace similar practices, which could lead to certification.”
To achieve certification, Leckford met Regenified’s rigorous 6-3-4 Verification Standard based on six principles, three rules, and four processes.
Regenified’s certification process will also help Leckford Estate track its progress in advancing regenerative principles.
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