Blackdown Ridge Estate sits at 440 feet above sea level in the Sussex Weald, enjoying extraordinary views over the South Downs National Park.
Here we have planted vines to create fine English wines, taking advantage of the superb location and conditions.
The wines of Blackdown Ridge Estate are the result of the vision of owner, Professor Martin Cook, who has lived on the estate for 27 years. A passionate wine-lover, Martin was inspired to create his vineyard when an Italian family friend and winemaker, Antonio, suggested that the beautiful, serene south-facing slopes of Blackdown would be perfect for growing vines.
Antonio’s words inspired Martin to realise the potential of the estate and the first vines were planted in 2010. The soil of the Sussex Weald shares much with the terroir of the Champagne region of France, and this influenced our plantings of the classic sparkling wine varietals: Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier and Chardonnay. In addition, the grapes planted for our range of still wines include the aromatic Bacchus for our single varietal English white wine, Triomphe and Sauvignon Blanc.
With a height of 280 metres and thus a rainfall of 950mm a year, Black Down is the highest point in West Sussex and the wettest in the Weald of South East England. Blackdown forms part of the Lower Greensand arc that surrounds the central basin of the Weald. The soil is a coarse, free draining, acid sandstone interrupted by hard chert layers (quarried for roadstone), with an impermeable clay layer beneath. Rainwater percolates through the sandstone then travels horizontally when it meets the clay. It emerges on the hillside through the sandstone/clay join where spring lines form.
Martin is passionate that his wines should be an accurate and authentic reflection of the land. Blackdown Ridge Vineyard benefits from its unique location on high south-facing slopes between the North Downs and the magnificent South Downs National Park. This unique dual influence brings balance and equilibrium to his wines.
After decades of working as a histopathologist specialising in melanomas Martin realised his vision to make exceptional English wines. His passion has driven him to strike out on his own in a daring project where he will finally has the freedom to make his own wines of distinction with the help of renowned consulting oenologist, Emma Rice.
We have 10.5 acres currently planted to vines which are nurtured throughout the growing year with an environmentally sensitive philosophy to viticulture that ensures optimum ripeness, yield and fruit quality.
Each vintage allows us to learn and improve, so much so that we now enter international competitions in order to measure ourselves against the very best. We are very proud of what we have achieved in so little time, but we’re also continually aiming to refine and exceed expectations.
To discover our wines, please go to our Online Shop or visit one of our local stockists.
Production will increase through summer 2024 and beyond, and, should you have a local shop or restaurant, we will be delighted to discuss trade arrangements - please call Lucinda on 07908 989566 for further details.
‘The English wine industry has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years, with a growing reputation for producing outstanding wines. Blessed with a climate and terroir that rival those of many renowned wine regions, England has emerged as an exciting contender in the global wine market. From the gentle slopes of Kent to the rolling hills of Sussex and beyond, vineyards throughout the country are producing a diverse range of varietals to delight wine enthusiasts. Sparkling wines, in particular, have garnered international acclaim, rivaling the finest Champagnes. The industry's commitment to sustainable practices and continuous improvement in winemaking techniques has contributed to the exceptional quality and character of English wines. With every passing vintage, the English wine industry continues to impress, solidifying its position as a force to be reckoned with in the world of fine wines.’
Meet The Team
Professor Martin Cook - owner
Our team at Blackdown Ridge includes owner Professor Martin Cook, who oversees everything both in the vineyards and during the winemaking process. He has been the driving force behind the development of the vineyard and the building of our own Winery, which was completed in time for the 2014 harvest.
Martin is a world renowned consultant histopathologist, specialising in melanomas.
Lucinda Colucci - Business Development Mananger
Lucinda Colucci joined the company in 2016 as Business Development Manager never having worked in the wine industry before. She had previously worked for the Professor Martin Cook within the NHS for 8 years. Lucinda loves new challenges and so therefore couldn't resist opportunity - NHS or vineyard? She hasn't regretted it for a moment ever since.
Award-winning wines
Find out more or purchase our award-winning wines in our shop.
Locally accredited
Emma Rice - Consultant Winemaker
Emma Rice is a British winemaker, she became the first woman to win the UKVA Winemaker of the Year twice. We are very proud to have her on board.
Virgil Moise - Viticulturist
‘After accepting the vineyard manager role at Blackdown Ridge I recognised that there was a shortage of experienced vineyard workers in the UK and from this Vitis Care UK was born.’
