Cherie Spriggs Wins Sparkling Winemaker of the Year Award

Nyetimber celebrates ground-breaking win at International Wine Challenge 2018

English sparkling wine Nyetimber is delighted to announce that Head Winemaker Cherie Spriggs has been awarded the accolade of ‘Sparkling Winemaker of the Year’ at the International Wine Challenge 2018; one of the most highly-regarded wine competitions in the world.

Cherie has been nominated twice in the past three years for Sparkling Winemaker of the Year, but tonight’s win marks the first time a winemaker from outside Champagne has won this award in the history of the International Wine Challenge. The achievement is testament to her expertise and commitment to elevating Nyetimber to the status it has today.

Nyetimber Head Winemaker Cherie Spriggs, comments:

“I am overwhelmingly flattered to receive this award. To win and be given recognition is truly an honour. This win is for everyone that works at Nyetimber, who day after day provide inspiration, as well as endless passion, drive and commitment to exceed expectations, all in the pursuit of perfection. This award is not only a great achievement for Nyetimber, but also gives an indication on the direction this industry is headed in. What is being achieved today here in England, by English wine producers, and particularly by Nyetimber, is significant, as it has never been done before outside of Champagne. This is also the first time ever a female has won the award.

Over the last 11 years, I have worked very closely with Eric Heerema, Owner and CEO, to produce the English sparkling wine we are known for today. Eric has always given me the space and opportunity to grow and hone my craft and I am both excited and honoured to continue my journey with Nyetimber.”

Owner and Chief Executive Eric Heerema, adds:

“I want to congratulate Cherie on this milestone award which is a huge accolade recognising her extensive and successful career at Nyetimber. Cherie is tremendously knowledgeable, passionate and committed to her job and it is such a delight to work closely with her.

Over the last 11 years I have been working hard with both Cherie and her husband Brad Greatrix to reach the current quality and consistency levels of Nyetimber sparkling wines and I look forward too many more years of working together to further set the standard as a world class wine producer.

We still have a lot to achieve in our venture however with Cherie and Brad’s expertise, drive and enthusiasm for perfection they continue to inspire me and the rest of our committed team. In this sense this unique award is also a huge compliment to all our staff at Nyetimber, especially during this very special year for Nyetimber celebrating 30 years of wine production. We have a great team and wonderful workplace which further stimulates us to continue working hard whilst loving what we do!”

The highly anticipated results of this year’s competition also saw three trophies awarded to Nyetimber, as well as four gold medals for Blanc de Blancs 2010, Classic Cuvee 2009 Magnum, Classic Cuvee Multi-Vintage Magnum and Tillington Single Vineyard 2010.

For more information about the International Wine Challenge and medal results for 2018, please visit the website.