Welcoming our new winemaker - Josh Hammond

Already getting a loyal following, the quality of the wines at Blackdown Ridge is set to go from strength to strength with the engagement of New Zealander Josh Hammond as the new winemaker. Young and dynamic, Josh has a great enthusiasm for English wines and has plans to bring his wealth of experience in making wines for Villa Maria in New Zealand, to Blackdown Ridge. "I believe that this vineyard has great potential for high quality wines" said Josh. "The key is to capture aroma and character, abnd the basis is top quality grapes and modern wine-making techniques".

Josh was born and raised in Marlborough, New Zealand, growing up as the 5th generation on the family sheep farm and vineyard. After studying law and chemistry at university Josh embarked on some world travel and completed vintages in California and France before returning to New Zealand to study winemaking and viticulture. After three years working as a winemaker at home a desire to travel again led Josh to the UK and his new role as winemaker for Blackdown Ridge.