Margaret Rand recently visited Chris Wilson, a former journalist turned winemaker, who is producing fine English still wines from a unique urban winery situated in a Cambridge windmill. The winery, named Gutter & Stars, is a compact 38 square yards and is located in the basement of the windmill, which was originally built in 1847.
Wilson, who single-handedly manages every aspect of the winery—ranging from winemaking to marketing—chose this unconventional location to escape the typical industrial units on the outskirts of the city. His passion for wine developed while working in lifestyle journalism, prompting him to pursue formal education in viticulture with qualifications from the WSET and a degree from Plumpton College.
After contemplating several options, he seized an opportunity during the lockdown of 2020 to lease the windmill. Inside, the space is filled with a few barrels, some steel tanks, and an innovative egg-shaped fermenter, reflecting Wilson’s philosophy of creating wines that tell a story. His labels are inspired by music and literature, aiming to connect more with wine enthusiasts.
Wilson’s winemaking approach is traditional yet thoughtful. He uses used barriques for fermentation, has cultivated a relationship with local growers for grape sourcing, and prioritizes honesty and precision in his craft. Despite producing small batches—often as little as one barrel’s worth—his wines have started to gain recognition, and he maintains a direct-to-consumer business model, reinforcing his local ties and passion for community engagement.
His dedication to quality ensures that, while his operations remain small-scale, they are thriving. Wilson sells most of his wines directly to consumers, often selling out quickly, and his efforts have built an appreciative audience among local wine lovers. Gutter & Stars is a testament to his ambition and a refreshing addition to the landscape of English winemaking, combining innovative branding with careful craftsmanship.
For more information, visit Gutter & Stars.