Grape harvester offers labour-shortage solution

The UK’s vineyard area continues to climb to meet rising demand as its wines grow in reach and respect, so it is perhaps no surprise the country’s first self-propelled grape harvester has now been bought by an Essex enterprise. Martin Rickatson learned more from maker New Holland, dealer Ernest Doe and buyer New Hall Wine Estate.

Farmers Guardian
clock • 7 min read
Ernest Doe sell first UK New Holland self-propelled grape harvester to an Essex vineyard.
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Ernest Doe sell first UK New Holland self-propelled grape harvester to an Essex vineyard.

Depending on your point of view, we have just enjoyed or endured one of the warmest and driest summers on record. But while some crops suffered in the heat, others flourished in growing and harvesting...

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