QUEENS OF THE VINE: 10 WOMEN LEADING THE UK WINE SCENE.
One thing about the UK wine industry that I am personally very excited about, is seeing women lead the way.
Let’s raise a glass to the incredible women reshaping the British wine scene. From urban wineries to historic estates, these trailblazing ladies are crafting exceptional wines and leading the charge in a traditionally male-dominated industry.
Here are ten female-led UK wine businesses that deserve a spot on your radar.
1 and 2. Melissa & Zoë Evans – Rowton Vineyard, Shropshire
Twin sisters Melissa and Zoë Evans are the dynamic duo behind Rowton Vineyard, found in the heart of Shropshire. Established in 2020 on land their family has farmed since 1963, the sisters bring a fresh perspective to English winemaking. Their commitment to crafting honest, characterful wines that showcase the Shropshire terroir has quickly earned them recognition in the wine community.
3. Mary Bridges – Gusbourne Estate, Kent
Mary Bridges has been on the wine scene since uni, has worked her way up the ranks, and now she’s the head winemaker in the cellar at Gusbourne — a vineyard that’s often whispered about in reverent tones by those in-the-know.
If you want to learn more about Mary, catch the English Wine Diaries podcast interview. I love this Podcast and the episode with Mary is very entertaining.
4. Sam Linter – Bolney Wine Estate, Sussex
Sam Linter, a second-generation winemaker, was instrumental in transforming Bolney Wine Estate into a powerhouse of English wine before stepping down in 2023. Under her leadership, Bolney gained international acclaim, and Sam herself has become a prominent figure in the industry, even serving on the WineGB board.
Today, Bolney still enjoys female leadership – in particular from Cara-Lee Dely, the Head of Winery & Operations at Bolney.
5. Lynsey Verrillo – Blackbook Winery, London
Lynsey Verrillo co-founded Blackbook Winery in a railway arch in Battersea, bringing a touch of urban chic to English winemaking.
They’re making minimal intervention wines that are vibrant, textured, and just a little bit wild — much like the city they call home. Their “I’d Rather Be a Rebel” rosé says it all, really
6. Tamara Roberts – Ridgeview Wine Estate, Sussex
Tamara is the definition of grace under pressure — or should we say, under cork? As CEO of Ridgeview, she’s led this Sussex sparkling powerhouse to international stardom. Under her guidance, they’ve picked up all the awards and even served their fizz at state banquets. If you’ve not tried Ridgeview yet, sort it out.
7. Alex Valsecchi – Albury Organic Vineyard, Surrey
Alex is the goddess of green wine dreams. She is the vineyard manager for Albury Vineyard near Guildford which is certified organic and follows biodynamic principles. What’s more Alex has a doctorate in horticulture and experience across vineyards in Italy and New Zealand.
8. Sarah Massey – Head Winemaker at Lyme Bay Winery, Devon
Perhaps one of the most well known women in English wine, Sarah Massey joined Lyme Bay Winery in 2019, bringing a wealth of international experience from stints in Burgundy and California. As Head Winemaker (what a dream job), she oversees all aspects of still and sparkling winemaking, focusing on sourcing the finest grapes from renowned UK vineyards. Her wines? Keep an eye out for their Chardonnay — it’s a banger.
9. Laura Riches – Co-founder of Laylo, London
Boxed wine but not as you know it. Laura co-founded Laylo with the idea that wine in a box should be as chic as your interiors — and actually taste good. Their packaging is art, the wines are lush, and the sustainability creds are off the charts. Ideal for Easter hosting or just a midweek slosh with a friend.
10. Kristin Syltevik – Founder of Oxney Organic Estate, East Sussex
If ever there were a queen of quiet confidence in English wine, it’s Kristin. She swapped the world of PR for pruning vines — and thank the grape gods she did. At Oxney, she’s built one of the UK’s largest organic vineyards from scratch, making fresh, elegant still and sparkling wines that are as low-intervention as they come. There’s a bit of Scandi calm in everything she touches, from the wine to the vineyard cottages you can stay in (yes, it’s a wine escape and a sleepover).
Where to next?
A few of my favourite things
Looking for a gift for yourself or a wine lover in your life? Here are a few of my favourite English Wine things.
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