Meet Our Team – Charlie Conrath, Vineyard Manager

charlie conrath, vineyard manager
english vineyard and english countryside

Career

Background & Education

Charlie, our Vineyard Manager, brings a wealth of experience in Viticulture and Oenology to the Highweald Wine Estate. He studied Viticulture & Oenology at Plumpton College, a leading institution in the field, and gained four years of hands-on experience at Rathfinny. During his time there, Charlie not only managed vineyard activities but also assisted in the winery during harvest season.

Charlie’s expertise expanded internationally when he worked in Australia’s Mornington Peninsula, working for Peninsula Vinecare, the main contractors in this prestigious wine region. During his season there, Charlie worked on the majority of the vineyards in this area.

Upon returning to the UK, Charlie further honed his skills at the Pommery-owned vineyard in Hampshire during the 2020 season, followed by significant time spent in Champagne, France, where he deepened his understanding of premium sparkling wine production.

charlie conrath, vineyard manager

Viticulture

Vision & Philosophy

Sussex-born and bred, Charlie returned to his home county to lead vineyard management at Highweald Wine Estate. His personal passion for innovative environmental sustainability shapes his approach to viticulture. Charlie is dedicated to creating high-quality wines that reflect the terroir of Sussex while prioritising ecological practices.

Under Charlie’s guidance, Highweald’s first release, Brut Reserve NV, achieved remarkable recognition, receiving multiple awards at the 2022 International Wine Challenge, including the prestigious title of Champion English Sparkling Wine.

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