A NEW DIMENSION ....

We know it’s been raining non-stop and the Estate grounds are flooded with water gushing down Winery Drive past the Vineyard entrance and down into the main Courtyard. But despite the incessant rain, I honestly can’t say we’ve really noticed.

We’ve all been somewhat distracted by the surprise and very sudden arrival, of little “Max” the latest member of The Motley Cru .... the most adorable black Labrador puppy.

Having met a friend at the Rugby Club on a Friday night who described the plight of little Max who needed to be re-homed urgently, it ignited an overwhelming desire to rescue him.

The whole family willingly agreed to adopt him over supper the next evening and Max arrived here two days later complete with all his belongings and everyone went “doo-lally”.

It was like adopting Paddington Bear. He’s such a soft, cuddly character with perhaps just a smidge of puppy fat.

WINE in the WILD!

So no point easing him in gently to life here at Kenton Park Estate, we threw him in at the deep end and took him on a major Walking Expedition the following day, one of our “WINE in the WILD” Adventures over Dartmoor to test his stamina alongside our other Vineyard Dogs, “Saffie” & “Indie” who are both very fit Gun Dogs (German Short Haired Pointers).

Conveniently with it being October Half Term, we were able to take Max out for extra long walks every day to test his endurance levels whilst battling the elements of the great British Weather and he’s loving it.

Ben now has his new Rugby Fitness Training Buddy and Max goes out running with Ben every morning around the Forest Trails up on the Ridge above the Estate (more fun than training in the Gym!).

FIZZ on FOOT

Max also joins the “FIZZ on FOOT” Walking Tours with groups who come here to the Vineyard wanting to experience more than just a Tour of the Vines and Tasting of the Wines here in the Winery - he joins the Walking Tours that take place up to the Forest Ridges above the Estate and beyond - always ending with a Glass of Fizz or two!

He’s out in the Vineyard most days with Ben inspecting the Vines and is learning to navigate his way around the different Plantations. “Pinot Noir” is a firm favourite as it has the most Pheasants running in between the Vine Rows and it’s nearest the Winery Building where he enjoys all the fuss and attention from any Visitors.

He’s a littl