Langham Wine Estate: An Evolution in Sparkling Wine
In the picturesque chalk and flint country of Dorset, Langham Wine Estate has emerged as a notable player in the fine sparkling wine scene. Established by Justin Langham and his team, including head winemaker Tommy Grimshaw, the estate has transformed an initial skepticism into a thriving wine business.
Tommy Grimshaw recalls a moment when flor—a layer of yeast crucial for certain wine styles—began to develop on their perpetual reserve. Initially faced with panic due to the absence of filtration methods, they adapted. This ongoing learning and adaptation has become a cornerstone of their winemaking philosophy, embracing the natural evolution of the wines influenced by both the land and their own innovation.
Justin, whose father John planted the first vines on the estate in 1980, had a vision of diversifying income sources. After studying viticulture at Plumpton College and gaining insights from travels to Champagne, he began transforming the estate from traditional farming into a vineyard-focused operation.
The journey from tentative beginnings to significant acclaim included successful participation in competitions, most notably winning first place at the Judgment of Parson’s Green competition in 2013. This victory laid a foundation of confidence that enabled the estate to thrive and build a solid reputation, eventually culminating in multiple awards, including the "Best Sparkling Wine Producer in the World" at the IWSC in 2020.
The winery has evolved to focus on terroir expression, utilizing indigenous yeasts and minimal intervention techniques to allow the grapes’ natural qualities to shine. Despite its non-organic status, due to challenges posed by weather, the estate harnesses its unique climate and soil. The teams work diligently, transforming the vineyard’s diverse grape offerings—predominantly Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Meunier—into expressive and complex sparkling wines.
Recent expansions doubled their vineyard area to 34 hectares, accommodating new varieties like Pinot Gris to enhance their portfolio. The focus remains on crafting distinctive wines, with experiments that include a solera-style sparkling wine and various still wine projects, demonstrating their commitment to both tradition and innovation.
The estate also features a restaurant offering locally sourced cuisine, providing visitors a chance to enjoy the wines in a beautiful setting while fostering a deeper connection to the land and its bounty. With half of the estate’s revenue coming from wine sales—a remarkable feat in the current climate—the future looks promising for Langham Wine Estate. Their dedication to quality and adaptation has set them apart in the ever-evolving English wine landscape.
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