The Crouch Valley in Essex is home to the most densely planted area of vines in the UK, producing top quality grapes for both still and sparkling wines. However, it is the consistently high levels of ripeness being achieved here that have been recognised across the country, making Crouch Valley fruit highly sought-after for premium still winemaking.

Building on the region’s success and expanding land under vine, the Crouch Valley Vineyards Association (CVVA) established itself in 2017 as an informal group of vineyard owners who could support each other and liaise with the local council on promoting tourism in the area.

According to the latest data from Wine GB, there are now 4,209 hectares planted to vines in the UK, representing a growth rate of 123% in 10 years. Growth in the Crouch Valley closely reflects this trend with the region’s Burgundian-style wines attracting large-scale domestic and international investment to the area in recent years. 

This growth prompted the decision to formalise the CVVA as an association that could promote and protect member interests. Having recently been granted a trademark for the use of the term ‘Crouch Valley’ on wine products made from member grapes, the CVVA represents local vineyard and winery owners, in collaboration with fruit buyers, relevant industry businesses and local authorities.

Dale Symons, CVVA Chairman said: “This exciting endeavour will promote networking and shared learning among members, as well as trade and public promotional activity to support the marketing of Crouch Valley fruit and its wines. It will also offer an opportunity for members to influence the future of the CVVA and how the region is represented. 

Membership is initially offered to vineyard owners and wineries with a physical presence in the Crouch Valley. Associate membership will be made available to wineries and other businesses with ties to the region in due course.” 

Prospective members and CVVA sponsors are invited to get in touch at dale@clayhillvineyard.co.uk

Leading the way for premium still winemaking 

For over a decade, leading UK winemakers have prized Crouch Valley fruit for its consistently high levels of ripeness, low disease pressure and complex flavour profiles even in the most difficult vintages. This may explain why wines made using fruit from the region score so highly with award judges, international critics and wine writers alike. 

It is an exciting time for the Crouch Valley, with recognition for its grapes and wines continuing to grow and an emerging wealth of viticultural and winemaking expertise in the region, only time will tell what can be achieved. What is clear, is that the CVVA is well positioned to support the region’s continued success and growth over the coming years. 


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