Ridgeview Named International Winemaker of the Year

Ridgeview has been named International Winemaker of the Year at the prestigious International Wine & Spirit Competition. This is the first time in the competition’s 49-year history that the award has gone to an English producer.

The IWSC attracts entries from over 90 countries and is seen as a benchmark for quality with over 400 global experts assisting with the judging. The award was announced at the Guildhall in London with guests gathered from the global wine world.

Ridgeview’s CEO, Tamara Roberts, commented: “It is difficult to comprehend the enormity of this award to Ridgeview and the family. Being the first English sparkling wine producer to win such a coveted trophy from the ‘Oscars’ of the wine world is a huge achievement.

“I love the IWSC for its uncompromising focus on quality which gives all producers a way of benchmarking their wines against the very best in the world.

“Being recognised as the International Winemaker of the Year shows just what can be done when quality is at the heart of everything you do. Our achievements will always be tinged with sadness that Dad is no longer here with us, but we take great comfort that we are living his dream and that life really is for celebrating.”

Ridgeview was also awarded ‘English Producer of Year’ and ‘English Wine of the Year’ for their Marksman 2014, a collaboration with Marks & Spencer.

Second generation Head Winemaker Simon Roberts added: “We are truly honoured to be awarded this accolade. We have always held the IWSC with the highest regard.

“When we first started Ridgeview it was our goal to win the best bottle fermented sparkling which we did go on to win twice! To win Winemaker of the Year is amazing, especially humbling amongst previous winners who we hold with the greatest esteem.”