Roebuck Estates in Sussex has launched this year’s Viticulture Academy for wine buyers and sommeliers, raising awareness of English wine. 

With the first session having taken place yesterday (10 March), staff from The Ritz, The Connaught, The Ned and The Berkeley all gathered for the inaugural class. 

Roebuck said the day focused on winter pruning, with participants taking part in a workshop during the task. 

Part of a three-stage course, Roebuck said the Academy is designed to give buyers and hospitality staff an in-depth and practical understanding of English viticulture as they incorporate it into their portfolio or wine list. 

Hosted by Jake Wicks, head of viticulture at Roebuck, the three sessions are set to run in March, July and October, allowing participants to follow the key stages of the vine’s lifecycle. 

Roebuck said: “By offering sommeliers direct access to the vineyard throughout the growing season, the Academy plays an important role in deepening their understanding of UK viticulture, helping ensure that sommeliers working at leading hospitality venues throughout the UK develop a richer appreciation of the craft and complexity of producing English sparkling wine.”