Interview with Augusta Raimes from Raimes English Sparkling

To celebrate International Women’s Day on the 8^th March, this week we are interviewing women in the world of producing English sparkling wine.

Augusta Raimes is owner of Raimes.

Raimes is a real family run business located in the South Downs National Park in Hampshire. Augusta and Robert are the fifth generation of the family to farm the fields now flourishing with 10 acres of vines.

How did you become involved in the wine industry?

Our family farm is situated in the South Downs National Park in Hampshire and we planted 10 acres to the traditional champagne varieties in April 2011, recognising that the chalk is ideally suited to vines.

What has been your hardest obstacle to overcome in producing wine?

The most stressful time of year is late April with the risk of spring frosts.  We put in some long days and nights.

What has been your proudest moment in the wine industry?

When wines are recognised by experts and awarded a trophy it’s very uplifting.

Raimes Vintage Rose won a trophy for Summer Days at The World’s Finest Glass of Bubbly Awards 2019.

How do you see the future of English sparkling wine?

English sparkling wine has a bright future and it is exciting to be part of the industry.  They consistently perform outstandingly well with international success and consumers are being more adventurous in exploring sparkling wines available.

Hard question, but do you have a favourite Raimes sparkling wine?

I love them all.  The Blanc de Noirs was the first wine we released from the 2013 harvest so that will always be special to us.  We produce a limited edition each year and are now on our 2016 vintage.

What is your favourite food pairing with one of your sparkling wines?

I love the Classic 2014 with Asparagus risotto (even better when made with a splash of the wine)

Where’s the most memorable place you’ve enjoyed a Glass of Bubbly?

It has to be bottle #1 opened together with the whole family, in the barn at the farm.  Too many emotions to describe, but a wonderful moment.