RESIDENTS at Bartlett’s Residential Care Home in Stone, part of Peverel Court Care, are enjoying something truly special – their very own vineyard, planted just beyond the gardens, and now well on its way to producing still and sparkling English wine.
More than 4,000 vines have been planted across the home’s south-facing grounds, marking the start of a project that blends nature, connection and community with the simple joys of shared experience.
Preet Shergill, associate director at Peverel Court Care, said:
“We wanted to create something truly different – something that offers beauty, purpose and conversation for years to come.
“The vineyard brings people together in the most heartwarming way, and seeing the joy on our residents’ faces as they explored the vines was a reminder of what care should be all about – connection, community and making the most of every day.”
On a recent guided visit by golf buggy, residents explored the vineyard for the first time – enjoying drinks and snacks and learning about the Pinot Noir and Chardonnay varieties already beginning to take shape.
Residents will be invited to take part in pruning, harvesting and naming the wine blends, with plans for future vineyard meals, community tastings, and shared activities across generations.
The vineyard complements Bartlett’s wider approach to care – one that focuses on wellbeing, creativity and choice. It follows the launch of Bartlett’s Garden Lodges – a 12-bedroom development offering a more personalised, independent approach to residential care – and will soon be joined by a new garden-to-table café serving residents, families and the local community.