Liberty Wines wins Hush Heath distribution from Bibendum

By Mathew Lyons

Published: 28 October, 2015

Kent winery Hush Heath has appointed Liberty Wines to distribute its award-winning range of still and sparkling wines.

Liberty will take over the majority of Hush Heath's wines from November 1. However, it will not assume responsibility for the estate's Balfour 1503 sparkling Pinot Noir until January 6, 2016.

Hush Heath previously distributed its wines through Bibendum.

Richard Balfour-Lynn, founder of Hush Heath Estate, said: "As consumer demand for boutique English wines continues to grow, we believe that Liberty Wines' reputation, expertise and customer base within the premium on-trade and independent off-trade will enable us to strengthen our position across these channels."

David Gleave MW, managing director of Liberty Wines, said: "Southern England is emerging as an increasingly reliable source of exciting, top quality sparkling and still wines as plantings mature and producers achieve higher quality year on year.

"With this is mind, we are delighted that the addition of Kent-based Hush Heath Estate strengthens our English offering to customers and complements our existing portfolio, both in terms of price point and geographical location.

David Gleave

"We have enjoyed tremendous success with Hattingley Valley (Hampshire), Bride Valley (Dorset), Nyetimber and Stopham Estate (West Sussex) over recent years and believe that there is plenty of scope for further growth within the premium wine sector."

Hush Heath has 15 ha of vineyards near Staplehurst.

It was founded in 2002 by Richard Balfour-Lynn and released its first wine, the Balfour Brut Rosé, in 2007.

The Balfour Brut Rosé won a gold medal at the International Wine Challenge in 2008. It was the first English wine to do so.

Liberty Wines was awarded Best Overall Large Agent / Distributor of the Year at the recent Harpers Awards 2015.