Major producer invests in English wine industry
20th June 2024
Jackson Family Wines will produce still and sparkling wine from fruit sourced from Kent, Sussex, and Essex.
The UK division of wine producer Jackson Family Wines has joined forces with WineGB, the trade association for English and Welsh wine.
Jackson Family Wines is the first major still wine producer to invest in the English wine industry.
By joining WineGB, it shows its dedication to supporting the development of the UK’s fastest growing agricultural sector.
The Jackson Family Wines’ team brings collective knowledge, expertise, and a fresh perspective to the WineGB membership.
The family-owned company has committed to transition all of its US estate vineyards to regenerative farming practices by 2030.
It will share its expertise with the Sustainable Wines of Great Britain Scheme.
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Still and sparkling
Jackson Family Wines is based in Santa Rosa, California. Best known for its Kendall-Jackson and La Crema labels, the company announced its intention to enter the English wine market in 2023.
The wine company will produce both still and sparkling wine from fruit sourced from Kent and Sussex, and vines being planted in the Crouch Valley in Essex.
This will be under the stewardship of former Gusbourne winemaker Charlie Holland and James Dodson, CEO of Vine-Works (Jackson Family Wines’ viticulture partner).
Statement of faith
Commenting on the new partnership, Nicola Bates, CEO of WineGB, said:
“Jackson Family Wines’ statement of faith in planting in the UK and joining WineGB demonstrates the huge opportunity we have as the world turns its attention to the value of our wine estate.
“Jackson Family Wines is one of 35 new grower and producer members that have joined us this year, highlighting the importance of our work and the vibrancy and diversity of the UK’s fastest growing agricultural sector.”
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Exciting partnership
Winemaker at Jackson Family Wines, Charlie Holland, added: “We are excited about our new partnership with WineGB, coinciding perfectly with the recent planting of our first English vineyard in Essex’s Crouch Valley.
“This next step marks an important milestone in our journey to produce world class Chardonnay and Pinot Noir still wines as well as a full range of vintage and non-vintage English sparkling wine.”
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