We are delighted to report that MDHUB member, Ridgeview, have been awarded the coveted trophy of Winemaker of the Year in the prestigious International Wine & Spirit Competition 2018. This is the first time in the IWSC’s 49-year history that this has been presented 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 were also awarded ‘English Producer of Year’ and ‘English Wine of the Year’ for their Marksman 2014, a collaboration with Marks & Spencer.  As winners of the best English Wine Trophy Ridgeview were eligible for the overall world-wide trophy and were ecstatic to be even considered in such illustrious company.

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.”

Ridgeview which was founded in 1995 by the Roberts family, were one of the first wineries to be devoted to the production of English sparkling wine.  Founder Mike Roberts (1943 – 2014) was awarded an MBE for his services to the English wine industry.  Ridgeview is now operated by the second generation of the Roberts family.  Ridgeview wines have been served at four Buckingham Palace State Banquets, many prestigious restaurants and exported to 17 countries around the globe.  This award has topped off a great year for Ridgeview with the 2018 vintage, the biggest and best-ever harvest on record which is due to be released in Ridgeview’s 25^th anniversary celebration year in 2020.