In episode 226 of the Drinking Hour podcast, David Kermode heads to Dorset to visit Tommy Grimshaw, head winemaker at Langham Wine Estate. Earning the title of Best Sparkling Wine Producer at the IWSC in 2020, this acclaimed estate isn’t unfamiliar with an accolade or two.
The pair discuss Grimshaw’s journey into winemaking, which began with labelling bottles at Sandridge Barton in his late teens. Without following the traditional educational route, Grimshaw instead worked his way up the ladder before taking the role of assistant winemaker at Langham, subsequently becoming head just a year later.
Grimshaw delves into what drew him to Langham, including the grower model that they follow, as well as the unique terroir of Dorset – typified by varied chalk, biting winds and high hills. Producing predominantly non-vintage sparkling wines, Grimshaw also dives into the dramatic vintage variation on the estate and the impact Dorset’s weather has on Langham’s winemaking.
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