Chapel Down

About Chapel Down

Chapel Down PLC stands as a prominent English winemaker, operating from Tenterden, Kent. The company was founded in 2002 by Frazer Thompson, who, after a successful career in marketing and strategy at major beverage companies like Whitbread and Heineken, sought a more authentic venture. Recognizing the potential of English terroir, particularly its similarity to the Champagne region, Thompson transformed the business into a serious contender in the wine industry. For two decades, he led the company, helping to elevate the profile of English wine globally before retiring in 2021. Andrew Carter, a seasoned executive from the global drinks industry with experience at Bacardi, Treasury Wine Estates, and Chase Distillery, took over as CEO in September 2021. In November 2023, James Pennefather, formerly of The Lakes Distillery, became the current CEO.

The company's core business is the production and sale of a wide range of still and sparkling wines. Its primary product line is traditional method sparkling wines, which constitute the majority of its sales value. Chapel Down also produces still white, rosé, and red wines, along with experimental batches in its 'Discovery Series'. The business model is diversified, with revenue generated through multiple channels. A significant portion comes from off-trade sales via major UK supermarkets like Waitrose, M&S, and Tesco. The on-trade channel includes distribution to hotels, bars, and restaurants. Chapel Down also engages directly with consumers through its e-commerce platform and a robust hospitality and tourism business at its Tenterden winery, which welcomes tens of thousands of visitors annually for tours and tastings. Exports represent a growing segment of the business, with a presence in 14 international markets.

Chapel Down is the largest wine producer in the UK, managing over 1,000 acres of vineyards across Kent, which is about 10% of the UK's total. This scale allows for a planned production capacity of over 2.4 million bottles per year. The company has received numerous international awards, with its Rosé Brut winning a 'Best in Show' at the 2021 Decanter World Wine Awards, an accolade it has won multiple times, more than any other English producer. Strategic partnerships with high-profile British institutions like the England and Wales Cricket Board and the Ascot Racecourse have significantly boosted brand awareness. After a challenging year in 2024, which saw a dip in profits due to one-off factors, the AIM-listed company anticipates a return to strong growth and profitability in 2025, supported by a record harvest in 2023 and new distribution agreements, including a partnership with Jackson Family Wines for the US market.