Attending the Hallgarten & Novum Annual Tasting at Old Billingsgate, London, was a fantastic opportunity to explore the evolving landscape of English wine. Hallgarten’s growing commitment to supporting homegrown producers was evident, with an impressive lineup showcasing the diversity and quality of wines being made across the country.
As one of the UK’s most established wine merchants, Hallgarten has long championed premium wines, and it is exciting to see English wine playing such a central role in their portfolio. Their dedication to getting these wines into both the on-trade and off-trade is helping drive the industry forward, ensuring more consumers can experience the best of what England has to offer.
The lineup of English producers in attendance was exceptional. Wiston Estate was represented by Marcus Rayner-Ward, Head Winemaker, who presented their impressive range of vintage and non-vintage traditional-method sparkling wines. New Hall Vineyard from Essex was represented by Lucy Winward, Head of Sales and Marketing, and Olly Shaw, Head Winemaker, who shared insights into the estate’s evolution and the rising reputation of Crouch Valley wines. Meanwhile, Henry Rymill from Simpsons Wine Estate showcased both their still and sparkling range, highlighting the estate’s dedication to quality winemaking.
London’s Blackbook Winery was in attendance with Sergio Verrillo, Founder and Head Winemaker, highlighting the exciting possibilities of urban winemaking. Ridgeview was represented by Brandon Barnham, Senior Business Manager, showcasing the pioneering Sussex estate’s sparkling range. Coates & Seely, of Hampshire, also made an appearance, as did boutique winery Hoffmann & Rathbone, with Ulrich Hoffmann, Founder and Owner, reinforcing the reputation of English sparkling wine at the top end of the market.
A real talking point was London Clay, a new addition from MDCV, introducing two Charmat-method sparkling wines to the portfolio – proof that innovation is thriving in English winemaking.
Hallgarten’s role in supporting English wine goes beyond simply listing bottles. Their influence in the trade, combined with their commitment to sustainability and quality, makes them a vital part of the industry’s growth. Events like this bring producers and trade professionals together, fostering connections and driving the future of English wine on a national scale.
With so many exceptional producers under one roof, this year’s tasting was a brilliant snapshot of just how far English wine has come – and a clear sign that it’s here to stay.
Hallgarten & Novum wines:
For more details check out their website:
www.hnwines.co.uk
