Fledgling Rawdon vineyard's sparkling wines are causing a stir

Leeds may not be known for its wine production but, if Sophie Ellis and Laura Tillotson have it their way, that could all be about to change. The friends set up Knotfield Vines on two acres of land in Rawdon in 2022 and, after the immediate success of their first releases last year, they are already thinking big. And the business could soon be welcoming tours to the site as a visitor attraction in this tranquil corner of the district.

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From an outside perspective, it appears you've every hope of continuing to grow and succeed while keeping your feet on the ground at the same time?

"The 3,123 vines of two different varieties - Seyval Blanc and Pinot Noir Precoce - are situated on stunning greenbelt land nestled away at the bottom of Knott Lane by Rawdon Crematorium," said Sophie, 38. "The land was to me by my father after his death almost 10 years ago and it was during the Covid years while I was sitting in the garden with a glass of wine reading about the industry's growth in Britain that 'inspiration struck."

In what way?

"I always wanted to do something that honoured my dad because I have such a connection to this place. And I think he would've loved the whole thing. I spent my teenage years sneakily drinking his wine, so it seems feels like it's come full circle."

After mentioning the idea to Laura, who you've been friends with from 19, the two of you decided to get the business up and running alongside their respective full-time jobs and family lives, is that right?