Ben Walgate’s New Chapter: A Balanced Approach to Winemaking
Ben Walgate has embarked on an exciting new venture following his departure from Tillingham, where his work often leaned heavily into experimental winemaking. Now, Walgate has embraced a more balanced philosophy, moving away from a strict zero-zero natural approach while maintaining a lo-fi methodology. His latest wines reflect a more refined, yet still authentic, style of winemaking.
In April 2023, Ben relocated to a new winery in Rye, a vibrant space housed in a large, open warehouse. The facility also serves as a trendy wine bar on weekends, blending practicality with community engagement. Shortly after the move, he transported his stock and acquired new winemaking equipment, including fiberglass tanks. These tanks, sourced from the same manufacturer used by Dan Hamm at Offbeat Wines, were chosen for their superior thermal dynamics and the way they allow wines to develop distinctively.
Walgate’s first vintage at the new winery processed 15 tons of grapes in 2023. Meanwhile, the inaugural releases under his new label—crafted from the 2022 harvest at Tillingham—were bottled and transferred to Rye. This marked the beginning of a new era, with a production total of 22,000 bottles across nine distinct wines.
His process combines ancient and modern techniques, ensuring wines of both integrity and a strong sense of place. The grapes are thoughtfully sourced from some of southeast England's best growers, reflecting a philosophy of respectful farming and meticulous craftsmanship.
Walgate’s portfolio includes an array of red, white, and rosé wines, alongside a select collection of traditional method sparkling wines. With patience and precision, the wines evolve naturally before bottling, and they are only released once they’ve reached their peak.
This thoughtful approach positions Walgate’s new venture as a rising star in England’s burgeoning wine scene. His winery in Rye is not just a place of production but a testament to his commitment to quality, integrity, and innovation.
For more information, visit walgate.eco.