Nutbourne Vineyards – Interview With Richard Gladwin

There is no denying that English Sparkling Wine is on the rise, becoming an undeniable contender to Traditional Method Sparkling around the world. To the English, it’s becoming a fan favourite and a go-to Glass of Bubbly, its quality is improving year on year and thanks to innovators and those willing to follow their dreams, the choice of English Sparkling Wine is expanding.

In this exclusive feature, we speak with Richard Gladwin from Nutbourne Vineyards in Pulborough, West Sussex, England. Let’s find out a little about his life in the world of sparkling wine.

It’s Great To Speak With You, Richard. Can You Tell Us A Little About Yourself & Your Journey Into The Wine Industry?

“I grew up helping with the vineyard at Nutbourne, but it was when I did four harvests in one calendar year that I realised I wanted a career in wine and hospitality. I was in New Zealand in March/April, California in August, Champagne in September, then finally home to England for our own harvest in October. Now, I get to serve our wines in the London restaurants I run with my brother Oliver.”

Do You Remember Your First Experience With Sparkling Wine? When It Was And What Kind Of Wine It Was?

“I can still remember my first taste of Nutbourne’s sparkling Nutty, after waiting three years for it to ferment in the bottle and produce fine, tiny bubbles – the richness was simply delicious! It won wine of the year in 2013, so the judges must have also been able to taste the remarkable terroir that we’re so proud of.”

What Advice Would You Give Someone Looking To Pair English Sparkling Wine With A Fine Dining Dish?

“We say ‘what grows together goes together’, so always look for seasonal, local produce to go with your wine, wherever you are.”

When It Comes To Pairing Sparkling Wine With Food, Do You Have Any Favourite Combinations That You Would Personally Recommend?

“In our Local & Wild restaurants, we serve young asparagus and London Burrata with Nutbourne Bacchus to celebrate the start of the season – the fresh green spears are a perfect match to the herby elderflower of the aromatic white wine.”

Can You Share With Us One Of The Most Memorable Experiences You’ve Enjoyed With A Glass of Bubbly?

“We used to pack a bottle of Nutty into our suitcase when we went skiing to enjoy under a starry alpine sky after a day on the slopes.”

Thank you, Richard, for sharing your story and experiences with us and we at Glass of Bubbly wish you the very best for the future!

Images belong to Nutbourne Vineyards / Photographer Credit Ed Dallimore of @59vines: https://59vines.com/. Glass of Bubbly was granted permission to use them.