After more than 35 years of pioneering and award-winning organic wine production, Roy and Irma Cook have sold Sedlescombe Organic Vineyard and are embarking on the next chapter of their lives.
The new owners, Sophie and Kieran Balmer have visited wine areas from Provence to Stellenbosch and the Salinas Valley to start learning about the science and art involved in winemaking. The opportunity arose last year to make an exciting life change that allowed them to invest in an established, independent local business.
The vineyard will continue to operate as organic and produce to Demeter standards, the brand for products from biodynamic agriculture. Roy Cook has also agreed to take on a consultancy role to provide continuity and guidance to the new owners.
“Virtually all the existing staff have chosen to remain in place and continue being a part of the oldest organic vineyard in the UK,” said Keiran Balmer, new owner of Sedlescombe. “Sophie and I very much hope that our existing customers continue to enjoy our wines and we look forward to working with the many local suppliers and businesses as we carefully plan the future of our wines and our vineyard.”
