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About us

Nestled in the picturesque Surrey Hills, our vineyard has a rich history that spans generations. It all began nearly 70 years ago when Emma’s mother tended to the vines in the Champagne region. Her passion for winemaking and dedication to the craft have been passed down, and today, she continues to work alongside us, producing exquisite English sparkling wine. Our vineyard is a labour of love, where tradition meets innovation, and every bottle tells a story of the land, the people, and the artistry that goes into creating each sip.

 

Joan (centre) working in Epernay in the Champagne region in 1961

 

Jason, an economics graduate and third generation farmer commenced his career at Buckingham Palace before venturing to Japan and subsequently joining Citibank in Tokyo and London.  Notably, Jason, a renewable energy enthusiast, pioneered crowdfunding for a wind farm in the UK, a venture he continues to oversee.

Emma, with first-class honours in Chemistry, embarked on her career at PriceWaterhouseCoopers, qualifying as a chartered accountant. Her journey led her to Finance Director roles at Plan International and ChildFund. In 2018, Jason and Emma acquired a farm in Guildford, marking the genesis of their fervent pursuit in cultivating their vineyard business.

At the heart of Blakes Lane Farm is a team of industry leaders dedicated to crafting a legacy in the world of English sparkling wine. Spearheading our viticulture is the UK’s foremost expert in grape cultivation. With a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities presented by our chalky hills in Guildford.

We shall soon be announcing the addition of a new luminary to our team, a seasoned and innovative winemaker whose arrival will mark a transformative chapter in our winemaking journey ready for the opening of our new winery in 2026.

Charlie, Lucy and Sophie, third generation viticulturists, have also inherited the deep passion for vineyard growing and bring a fresh prospective with innovative ideas and help in implementing sustainable practices.