Grape Masters Special Edition – ProWein 2025 with Nyetimber.
In this special edition of our podcast, we return to Düsseldorf for a live recording with Zoë Dearsley of Nyetimber — right in the heart of the Messe Halle at ProWein, the world’s largest wine trade fair. Together, we explore the past, present, and future of one of England’s leading wine producers and a true pioneer in the world of sparkling wine.
Nyetimber: England’s Sparkling Pioneer
Nyetimber is more than a winery — it’s the name that changed the global perception of English wine. Founded in 1988, Nyetimber was the first English estate to plant the classic Champagne grapes — Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier — with the ambition of crafting world-class sparkling wine using the traditional method.
Located in the rolling hills of West Sussex, the estate’s story actually stretches back to 1086, when it was first recorded in the Domesday Book. From monastic ownership to the hands of royalty, and now under the stewardship of Dutch entrepreneur Eric Heerema, Nyetimber has always stood for quiet strength and thoughtful evolution.
With 11 vineyards across Sussex, Hampshire, and Kent, and a fully estate-grown philosophy, Nyetimber controls every step from vine to bottle. Head winemaker Cherie Spriggs and senior winemaker Brad Greatrix have led the winemaking team since 2007, blending precision, patience, and passion into each cuvée.
Whether it’s the signature Classic Cuvée, the rare Tillington Single Vineyard, or the decade-aged prestige 1086 by Nyetimber, each bottle reflects a commitment to quality above all else. In fact, in difficult years — like the rain-soaked 2012 vintage — the team made the bold decision not to bottle at all.
Today, Nyetimber stands as the benchmark for English sparkling wine, proving that luxury and legacy can grow in British soil.
Zoë Dearsley: The Sparkling Voice of Nyetimber
For Zoë Dearsley, becoming part of Nyetimber was never just about career progression — it was the fulfilment of a personal mission. At just 23, a tasting of Nyetimber’s 1996 Blanc de Blancs in magnum left such a lasting impression that she set a clear goal: one day, she would represent this pioneering English estate. Today, she holds the role of Group Head Brand Ambassador — one of the few full-time brand ambassadors in the English wine industry.
“Cut me open, and I’m Nyetimber,” she laughs during our interview at ProWein 2025 in Düsseldorf. That sense of loyalty runs deep. Fiercely patriotic and passionately committed to English wine, Zoë has helped lead Nyetimber’s expansion across more than 20 export markets, all while staying grounded in its West Sussex roots.
Her role goes far beyond pouring glasses. From hosting high-profile events at Wimbledon, Queen’s Club, and the Ritz to educating trade and press across the UK and abroad, Zoë is at the forefront of a sparkling revolution. And with Nyetimber’s recent acquisition of The Lakes Distillery, her portfolio now includes English single malt whisky — a challenge she’s embraced with trademark enthusiasm.
Few people embody a brand so completely, and fewer still do so with the charm, insight, and tireless drive that Zoë brings to the world of wine.
ProWein: The Global Stage for Wine and Spirits
ProWein, held annually in Düsseldorf, Germany, stands as the premier international trade fair for wine and spirits, uniting industry professionals from every corner of the globe. With its inception over 25 years ago, ProWein has grown in both size and prestige, offering an unparalleled platform for producers, importers, and experts to showcase their offerings, share knowledge, and forge essential business connections.
The event distinguishes itself through its vast exhibition space, encompassing thousands of producers from classic and emerging wine regions. Attendees have the unique opportunity to taste a wide array of wines, attend masterclasses, and participate in seminars led by luminaries in the field. ProWein’s focus on innovation, market trends, and the future of the wine and spirits industry makes it an indispensable event for anyone looking to stay abreast of the dynamics shaping the global market.
Read More
Click here for our in-depth article on Nyetimber, including a review of the wine we shared with Zoë: Nyetimber’s 2016 Blanc de Blancs.
Tune in Now!
This special edition of Grape Masters is now available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, YouTube Music, through RSS Feed and all major platforms. Be sure to subscribe and follow us to stay up to date with the latest stories from the world’s most inspiring wineries.
We would like to thank ProWein for allowing us to record at the trade show, and setting up their facilities, and of course our guest: Zoë Dearsley, Group Head Brand Ambassador at Nyetimber and their distributor in the Dutch market; De Bruijn in Wijnen.
