Retired businessman Richard Morris had big plans for early retirement with his wife Joy when they purchased Ancre Hill house in 1998. However, their retirement dreams took an unexpected turn, leading them to transform the property into the thriving Ancre Hill Estates, now valued at £3.4 million.
The estate, nestled in Monmouth, boasts three vineyards spanning 22 acres, a winery producing an average of 30,000 bottles annually, and a beautifully renovated farmhouse at Newton Court Farm. What started as a post-retirement project has evolved into a successful family-run business supplying top restaurants worldwide with their exceptional wines.
Richard’s journey from selling his transport company to becoming a vineyard owner began with a thirst for knowledge. He enrolled at Plumpton College to study viticulture, acquiring the skills needed to cultivate vineyards and produce quality wines. Despite initial plans for a leisurely retirement, Richard found fulfilment in the hands-on work of winemaking, spending long days tending to the vines and overseeing operations at the winery.
Alongside his wife Joy and head winemaker Jean Du Plessis, the Ancre Hill team has faced challenges like dwindling yields and market fluctuations. Despite the setbacks, their commitment to sustainable winemaking practices remains unwavering. The estate’s eco-friendly winery stands out as one of the most environmentally conscious in the industry, showcasing innovation and a deep respect for nature.
Richard’s dedication to preserving the legacy of Ancre Hill is evident in his hopes for the estate’s future. As the couple looks to pass on their life’s work, they seek a buyer who shares their values and commitment to environmental stewardship. Their story of turning neglected fields into a thriving vineyard serves as an inspiration for aspiring winemakers and enthusiasts alike.
As Ancre Hill continues to make waves in the wine world with its unique offerings like orange wine and pét-nats, Richard Morris and his family leave behind a legacy of passion, hard work, and a deep reverence for the land. Their journey from retirement plans to vineyard owners exemplifies the transformative power of pursuing one’s true calling, even in unforeseen circumstances.