I had the pleasure of attending the 40th annual WineGB Wessex Wine Awards Celebration Lunch at The PIG hotel in Brockenhurst. This milestone event celebrated four decades of winemaking excellence, bringing together producers, judges, and wine enthusiasts to honour the incredible quality and diversity of wines from Dorset, Hampshire, the Isle of Wight, and Wiltshire.
WineGB Wessex is the third-largest of WineGB’s regional bodies, representing over 70 members, from small vineyards producing a few hundred bottles to estates crafting half a million. This year, more than 50 wineries entered their wines, highlighting the region’s growing reputation for excellence.
The big winner this year was Langham Wine Estate, whose 2019 Pinot Noir scooped both the prestigious “The PIG” Wessex Wine of the Year Trophy and the Best Sparkling Brut Trophy. Other winners included:
- Best Sparkling Rosé Trophy: Hattingley Valley, Kings Rosé 2015
- Best Still Wine Trophy: Domaine Hugo, Two Times and a Half 2021
- John Youles Trophy (Still): Domaine Hugo, Two Times and a Half 2021
- Roger Marchbank Trophy (Sparkling): Domaine Hugo, Hugo 2020
The judging panel included Luke Harbor, Head of Wine for The PIG Hotels and chair of the judges; Phoebe French of WineGB; and Rebecca Pitcairn of English Wine Diaries. Luke Harbor was particularly impressed by the “breadth, consistency, and overall quality” of the sparkling wines, though he acknowledged the challenges faced by still wine producers during a tricky vintage.
Speaking at the event, Guillaume Lagger, Chair of WineGB Wessex, said: “The awards celebrate the incredible quality of Wessex wines, and it’s an exciting moment for the region as we see our wines being recognised.”
This was the third year of collaboration between WineGB Wessex and The PIG Hotels, whose support has helped to elevate the profile of Wessex wines. The perfect setting to toast the winners and indulge in a delectable feast of local produce.
From sparkling wines that rival the world’s best to innovative and characterful still wines, Wessex is firmly establishing itself as a leader in English wine. Such a delight to be surrounded by so much passion and talent that is driving the industry forward.
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