Essex, traditionally recognized more for its reality television scene than for fine wines, is starting to make a name for itself in the wine industry. Two Burgundy vintners are set to swap their Côte d’Or vineyards for the Crouch Valley in Essex to venture into producing English still wines.
Local producer Danbury Ridge, already making waves for its quality wines, is collaborating with Domaine Duroché from Burgundy to create a limited quantity of Pinot Noir. The project involves selecting a specific parcel of vines in the promising Crouch Valley area, with plans for Pierre Duroché to travel from Gevrey-Chambertin to oversee the harvest and vinification in October alongside Danbury’s winemaker, Liam Idzikowski.
While sparkling wines have gained international recognition for the UK, still wines are also earning accolades. Danbury Ridge’s initiative highlights the estate’s potential and the unique characteristics of Essex’s terroir, particularly for Pinot Noir.
Flint Wines, a UK merchant, will handle the exclusive distribution of this small-batch wine, with the first release anticipated in 2028. Jason Haynes, Flint’s owner, emphasized the quality of Danbury’s wines and lauded Pierre Duroché as a standout figure in Burgundy, expressing excitement about the collaboration.
Additionally, Flint Wines is also working with Burgundy winemaker Alex Moreau, who has begun his own project with Missing Gate Vineyard in Essex, further showcasing the region’s burgeoning potential for fine wine production.
The interest in Essex’s vineyards is growing, as highlighted by recent reports showing a 20% increase in vineyard prices year-on-year, reflecting the area’s attractiveness for producing high-quality still wines.
As the wine world shifts its gaze to Essex, the collaborations between established Burgundy producers and local winemakers promise to elevate the profile of English wines on the international stage.
For more information about Essex’s wine scene, see the following articles: