Ridgeview Wine Estate has been acquired by an investor consortium led by The Quantum Beverage Company (Q Bev) for an undisclosed sum. 

Q Bev commented that the acquisition provides Ridgeview with a strong capital base and strategic support, marking the start of a long-term growth plan in both the UK and internationally. 

As part of the acquisition, Gregg Ainsworth, co-founder and CMO of Q Bev, has been appointed CEO of Ridgeview with immediate effect, taking over from Tamara Roberts, who will be stepping down after 21 years. 

At the same time, Allan Beattie, CFO at Q Bev, will also become chief financial officer at Ridgeview. 

Head winemaker Simon Roberts will remain in the business in his current position. 

On the acquisition, Ainsworth said: “Ridgeview is a truly exceptional brand with an outstanding reputation for quality and innovation. We see enormous potential in the business, and this acquisition reflects our confidence in both the existing team and the long-term opportunity for English sparkling wine.  

“Ridgeview is an exciting opportunity for us. It’s a standard bearer and pioneer in English sparkling wine, a category enjoying strong growth and set to see a robust future.  

“We aim to build on the strong foundations laid by the Roberts family, the founders of the Estate who will continue to be involved in the business. We will help bring these stunning award-winning wines to an ever-growing and appreciative customer base, throughout the UK and across the globe.”