Our Story - The legacy of Steven Spurrier
Bride Valley Vineyard was founded in 2009 by the late Steven Spurrier, a globally renowned wine expert whose passion for wine was matched only by his love for the Dorset countryside. Probably most famous for 'The Judgement of Paris', a tasting in which Californian wines triumphed in a blind tasting against their French couterparts! After decades spent championing wines from around the world, Steven returned home to plant a vineyard of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier on his wife Bella’s sheep farm in Litton Cheney. The land’s chalk-rich soils (mirroring those of a very well-known French Region) provided the perfect foundation for his dream: to craft elegant English sparkling wines that could stand alongside the world’s best.
From Bride Valleys debut vintage in 2011, the wines quickly earned acclaim for their crisp, precise style - including the Brut Reserve, Bella Rosé Sparkling, and Blanc de Blancs - each reflecting the purity of the Dorset terroir and meticulous craftsmanship. Steven was a storyteller and host, welcoming visitors with warmth and sharing his deep knowledge with infectious enthusiasm.
Today, Bride Valley enters a new chapter under the stewardship of Alasdair Warren. Alaisdair’s connection to the land runs deep: his family has been making cider in the region for generations, with his grandfather Hubert Warren among the notable cider-makers of Netherbury, founding Warrens Cider in 1922. This heritage, chronicled in James Crowden’s Cider Country, speaks to a longstanding tradition of Dorset orcharding and craft.
Steven & Alasdair were neighbours and had long been in talks about Alasdair being involved with Bride Valley Vineyard. With a shared commitment to quality and the celebration of local terroir, Alaisdair brings fresh energy to Bride Valley while honouring its founding ethos. Under his guidance, the vineyard continues to produce exceptional still and sparkling wines, host seasonal events, and welcome guests eager to experience the beauty and bounty of the Dorset countryside.
At Bride Valley, we remain dedicated to crafting wines that reflect our unique landscape.
To find out more about plans for our future read on here.
