Farm Diversification: Branching Out with Rowles Farm

In this episode, we are talking to Georgie, Tom and Will from Rowles farm.

Today we are talking about farm diversification, what is the best approach to take when looking at new ventures and what can it bring to farm businesses. 

Identical twins Tom and Will and their sister Georgie are third generation farmers, based in West Berks since 1969. 

The vineyard was established in 2021. 

What is the history of Rowles Farm?

Rowles Farm has been in the Carlisle family for three generations. Originally based in Wiltshire, Norman Carlisle relocated to West Isley, south of Oxford, when the M4 motorway cut through his original farm. Here, he purchased land and took on a tenancy with the Lockinge Estate. In 2015, the family was able to buy the farm outright with the support of Lloyds Bank, marking a significant milestone for the business.

What does Rowles Farm produce?

Rowles Farm is a mixed enterprise, producing both arable crops and livestock:

• Arable crops: Winter wheat, winter barley, spring barley, and oilseed rape.
• Livestock: A breeding flock of ewes, lambs from Northumberland, and a mixed herd of cattle, including Charolais, Limousins, and Aberdeen Angus.
• Alpacas: A unique addition to the farm that is especially popular with visitors.
  
  

What challenges does Rowles Farm face?

Tom Carlisle highlighted key challenges affecting the farm:

• Climate change: Hotter, drier conditions and reduced rainfall have made water a critical issue.
• Market volatility: Fluctuating crop prices and difficulty predicting the right time to sell.
• Rising costs: Increasing expenses for fertilisers, chemicals, and fuel strain farm budgets.
  
  

Why did Rowles Farm diversify into vineyard farming?

The decision to diversify into vineyards was driven by both necessity and passion:

• Resilience: The need to create a sustainable, long-term enterprise amidst market and climate challenges.
• Opportunity: Georgie Carlisle’s return to the farm prompted discussions about adding a new venture. Their father supported the idea, encouraging the siblings to present a business plan.
• Consultation: The family worked with experts to map soils, monitor weather, and evaluate the feasibility of vineyard farming.
  
  

How did Rowles Farm plan its vineyard?

Planning the vineyard was a meticulous process that took over five years. Key steps included:

• Using weather stations to identify frost pockets and optimise site selection.
• Choosing south-facing chalk slopes with natural windbreaks for ideal growing conditions.
• Selecting grape varieties such as Bacchus and Pinot Noir, tailored to the farm’s microclimate.
• Installing additional windbreaks to protect the vines from harsh conditions.
  
  

What are the risks of vineyard farming?

While vineyard farming offers great potential, it also carries risks:

• Weather: Frost in May or heavy rain before harvest can severely impact yields.
• Market competition: A surplus of grapes could reduce demand, creating challenges for selling produce quickly.
• High investment: It can take up to 8-9 years to see a return on investment.
  
  

When does Rowles Farm expect its first grape harvest?

The first harvest is expected in autumn 2024, from vines planted in 2021. The farm aims to produce high-quality grapes to sell to local wineries, with plans to eventually create their own wine label.

What advice does Rowles Farm offer for diversification?

Georgie, Tom, and Will shared valuable advice for other farmers considering diversification:

• Research thoroughly: Understand your market, soil, and climate before committing to a new venture.
• Seek expert advice: Consult with professionals in the field to guide your decisions.
• Take your time: Ensure diversification adds value to your business rather than creating unnecessary risks.