Ridgeview & Chapel Down English Sparkling Wine Official Suppliers for Downing Street

English wine producers Chapel Down and Ridgeview have been chosen to be the official suppliers for Downing Street receptions it has been announced.  This confirms the Government’s commitment to supporting the growth and success of the burgeoning UK food and drink industry.

Ridgeview from Sussex and Chapel Down from Kent were present at the Food is GREAT launch event at No 10 Downing Street earlier this month, which showcased and celebrated the very best food and drink that Britain has to offer.  Celebrated chef Tom Kerridge and holder of two Michelin stars, created a menu for guests at the reception which was inspired by the nation’s food and drink producers.  English wines feature on his restaurants’ lists.

The two wine producers, along with Camel Valley in Cornwall, are three of DEFRA’s 50 Food Stars, championed by the Government department last year.

Tamara Roberts, second generation CEO of Ridgeview commented: “We are delighted that Downing Street has chosen to serve Ridgeview at their receptions.  This illustrates the support of government for the incredible quality, breadth and depth of the British food and drink industry.”

Mark Harvey, Chapel Down Managing Director of Wines, added: “We are thrilled that Chapel Down will now be served at UK government functions. This valuable support from No 10 comes at an incredibly exciting time for a dynamic and ambitious English Wine industry”

A spokesman for No 10 said: “The Government is proud to celebrate Britain’s excellent produce and that includes at events hosted here at No 10. From Cornish pasties to Stilton cheese, from Welsh lamb to Scottish salmon, the UK is home to many iconic food and drink products recognised and enjoyed across Europe.  Now English sparkling wine – which has beaten Champagne in competitions – is amongst them.”

Julia Trustram Eve, Marketing Director of English Wine Producers, the marketing association for the UK wine industry commented: “English wines are proudly growing in volume and international recognition, and form a part of a vibrant UK food and drink industry.  Support from our Government in ways such as this is an essential endorsement of all that this industry is achieving.”

This follows on from the first English wine Roundtable earlier this year, hosted by the Environment Secretary, Elizabeth Truss, to explore areas of wine industry development.  This was facilitated by The Wine & Spirit Trade Association (WSTA).  Miles Beale, Chief Executive of WSTA commented: “The Prime Minister has made clear his support for English wine. It’s only right it should be showcased to the world at Downing Street.”