Following the successful brand and packaging update for Ridgeview in 2018 CookChick were commissioned again to work on a very special new project. To mark the 25th Anniversary as pioneers in English sparkling, the winery launched their first new wine in a decade – Ridgeview Oak Reserve NV. Produced to celebrate Ridgeview’s part in the historical rise of the English sparkling wine industry, the Oak Reserve has an innovative new label design and packaging, highlighting their pioneering force in English sparkling wine.

The project especially curated by Ridgeview Director of Winemaking, Simon Roberts was inspired by his love of subtly oaked sparkling wines. “With careful use of oak-aged Chardonnay, we have created a Ridgeview barrel fermented sparkling wine. Some of the very best Chardonnay grapes were selected from our home vineyard in Ditchling, planted in 1995. I have always loved what delicate oak can bring to Chardonnay and this project has allowed me to explore the additional creaminess from the oak, in harmony with our normal fresh fruit style. We have made an unique batch of 2,600 bottles which I think is one of the most exciting wines that we have released.”

Co-Founder Lee Cook commented: “Such a distinctive sparkling wine demanded an equally distinctive bottle design. What could be better for a Limited-Edition Oak Reserve wine than a real wood label delivering an individual grain, pattern and colour to each of the 2,600 bottles. Combining the natural texture of oak with foil blocking – silver of course for Ridgeview’s 25th Anniversary – and a unique label shape defines a celebratory feel. A great project to be involved in and a result we are all incredibly proud of.”

Ahead of launch the new release has just been awarded the Sparflex English Sparkling Wine Label of the Year in the 2020 Drinks Business Awards, commended for its ‘Daringly different design’.