About Polgoon
Six years ago the Coulsons were fish merchants supplying Marks & Spencers from their business based at Newlyn Fishing port. They had 5 children and needed a bigger house to accommodate the growing family! By chance they found a derelict farmhouse on the edge of Penzance and decided to buy it - along with 23 acres, 2 cottages and 2 barns for conversion!
After meeting an award winning winemaker they decided to plant vines, and remarkably in their first wine harvest (2006) were awarded the Trophy for the “Best Still Rose in the UK”. This trophy was awarded by the UK Vintners Association, was judged by 7 Masters of Wine and sponsored by Waitrose.
The next two yields of Polgoon wine also won major national competitions. At this stage it was clear the operation needed to expand so John and Kim applied for and were awarded planning permission for a further 9 cottages and a purpose built winery.
Due to adverse weather conditions, Polgoon suffered terrible harvests in 2007 and 2008 leaving no wine! Determined not to be beaten the Coulsons perfected “Aval” (Cornish for apple), a sparkling champagne product which they began to market locally. Within weeks it had all sold out.
At this stage the Coulsons approached some key retailers in London to market the Polgoon Aval and were delighted when Fortnum & Mason and Wholefoods placed orders. Polgoon Aval Raspberry won a gold medal in the Taste of the West awards 2009 and was runner up in the National Drinks Awards.
Subsequently an "Aval Rose" has now been perfected and is being stocked by River Cottage and Rick Stein as well as many others.
The summer of 2009 was a good one for growing and Polgoon had a strong harvest, making for an excellent vintage. They continue to make Sparkling Aval and Aval Rose and have launched a Perry (called “Peren” – Cornish for pear).
The challenges for Polgoon and the Coulsons are enormous but they passionately believe in the business and will continue to work 7 days a week to achieve growth and an award winning national and international vineyard.
Meet "The Polgoonies"
