Estimated reading time: 6 minutes
Key Takeaways
- Del Vino Vineyards wins the 2025 Mort Harris Small Business of the Year award from Horsham Council.
- Award recognises exceptional sustainability, wine quality, and community engagement.
- Victory highlights the region’s growing reputation for premium, eco-friendly wines.
- Plans include facility expansion, new varietals, and deeper tourism partnerships.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Against the rolling backdrop of Horsham’s countryside, excitement is bubbling as Del Vino Vineyards raises a celebratory glass. The family-owned estate has just been crowned “2025 Mort Harris Small Business of the Year,” an accolade bestowed by Horsham Council. As one councillor remarked, “Del Vino embodies the perfect blend of tradition, innovation, and community spirit.”
The official announcement, featured in Horsham Council recognises local vineyard excellence, applauds the vineyard’s commitment to sustainability, premium wine production, and local engagement.
Factors Behind the Win
Marketing that ages like fine wine: Del Vino’s digital storytelling pairs stunning vineyard imagery with eco-friendly messages, while selective print ads reach traditional wine aficionados.
- Engaging social media campaigns showcase seasonal harvests.
- Collaborations with food bloggers amplify the brand’s artisanal vibe.
Community engagement: From sponsoring local festivals to hosting charity tastings, the vineyard fosters deep roots in Horsham.
- Partnerships with nearby farms promote regional produce.
- Volunteer days invite residents to plant native flora around the estate.
Uncompromising wine quality: Organic viticulture, small-batch fermentation, and meticulous barrel ageing deliver a portfolio that consistently wins gold medals.
Quote from head vintner: “Every bottle reflects our stewardship of the land and our love for Horsham.”
Impact on Community & Economy
The award is more than a personal triumph; it’s a regional boon.
- Employment: Dozens of seasonal and full-time roles sustain local families.
- Tourism: Tasting-room footfall surged 30 % last year, driving revenue for B&Bs and restaurants.
- Agri-tourism: Vineyard tours position Horsham as a must-visit wine destination.
Future Outlook
Expansion plans include:
- A new solar-powered fermentation wing.
- Limited-edition sparkling rosé tapping Horsham’s cool-climate potential.
- Joint marketing with the council to elevate wine tourism trails.
With orders pouring in, the vineyard is charting export opportunities while staying steadfastly local in its ethos.
Conclusion
Del Vino’s achievement illustrates how sustainability, quality, and community can coexist in perfect harmony. As Horsham toasts this milestone, the vineyard’s story serves as a blueprint for regional businesses aiming to make a lasting impact.
FAQs
What makes the Mort Harris award significant?
It is Horsham Council’s highest honour for small businesses, recognising excellence in innovation, sustainability, and community contribution.
How can visitors experience Del Vino Vineyards?
Guests can book immersive vineyard tours, guided tastings, and seasonal harvest events directly through the estate’s website or visitor centre.
Are the wines available outside Horsham?
Yes, select bottles are distributed to regional retailers, with national shipping anticipated once the new production wing is complete.
What sustainability practices does the vineyard follow?
Del Vino employs organic pest management, solar energy, recycled water systems, and lightweight glass to reduce its carbon footprint.