‘POLGOON’

Cornish for ‘Pond on the Downs’

A WORD THAT PERFECTLY DESCRIBES THE LOCATION OF OUR VINEYARD AND ORCHARD. SITTING ATOP A SUNNY HILL, OVERLOOKING THE GLISTENING SEA OF MOUNTS BAY. This unique aspect is reflected on our logo and labels which depicts an abstract view of our vines and the sea – both of which we have a strong connection to, here at Polgoon.

 John and Kim Coulson purchased Polgoon in 2002 after working for many years as fish merchants in Newlyn. The land had been derelict for over ten years, and previously had been a flower farm. The harsh reality of growing grapes in Cornwall, is that the despite natural shelter, a great microclimate and the proximity to the sea (meaning frost damage risk is low,) the region’s relentless rain would always pose a high risk. Ready for the challenge, the Coulson’s ordered 3,500 vines, which were planted the following spring time in 2004. Initial plantings were of Rondo, Pinot Noir Précoce, Seyval Blanc and Ortega.

John and Kim’s determination resulted in quick reward after a great first harvest in 2006. The first vintage to be made went on to achieve the Best Still Rosé Trophy in the UKVA awards the following year. Despite a great start, the following harvest of 2007 was disastrous due to the tremulous Cornish weather. This weather did bring about a significant step forward for Polgoon in 2007 -2008 as the Coulson’s looked to apples from their orchard as a backup to the wine business. This was significant as, volume wise, cider has formed the backbone of the Polgoon operation, and has gone on to win many awards.

John is self-taught winemaker, through studying a huge amount of books, internet resources and shared knowledge from other producers. Because of Polgoon’s early foray into growing and making wines, the steep learning curve has been pivotal to their success. It forced John to adapt and develop his winemaking principles based on what can actually be done in Cornwall with wine.

As such, a growing range of precise and expressive still and sparkling wines have been formed. The signature of these are delicate with clean, English fruit expression.