What goes around comes around... extract from Scots newspaper report - << The Winelands of Britain charts the ebb and flow of wine production in Britain since the last major Ice Age. Viniculture first emerged in the Neolithic era around 2,700BC when Britain was warming up. In the Roman age, around 300AD, vineyards were established as far north as a line drawn from the Humber to the Severn estuaries before failing as temperatures dropped again. Now, with temperatures rising again, the most northerly vineyard has been set up in North Yorkshire. Selley claims that south-facing peaks in the Derbyshire Peak District, which has the same geology as Greece, and the Lake District will become warm enough to support grape growth within 50 years. "Vineyards flourish on rocks of all ages and types, but it is the interplay of geology and climate that determines the landscape in which the vineyard lies and the soil in which it grows," he said. "The seasons are important but vines can tolerate quite cold winters. In Canada, you will see vineyards with snow all around." The best Scottish wine estates will be along the south-facing slopes of the Great Glen where the geology is similar to the Cape vineyards of South Africa. "The prime estates will be on the north shores of the lochs (Ness, Lochy and Linnhe) where the sunny south-east facing slopes will receive enhanced radiation reflected from the waters of the lochs below," said Selley.>> Our village in Herefordshire cultivates mixed hop and vine growing and the increased popularity of cider and perry boosted the orchards. UK white wines achieve international awards but the drawback for consumers is the price. It is said that those with fizz could eventually rival French Champagnes - but don't hold your breath... Betty ___________________________________________________________ The all-new Yahoo! Mail goes wherever you go - free your email address from your Internet provider. http://uk.docs.yahoo.com/nowyoucan.html