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by James Bailey
Published: 07 October 2024
Jeroboams has been appointed as the exclusive UK distributor for Harrow & Hope, a prominent English wine producer known for its award-winning sparkling wines. This partnership reflects the growing popularity and reputation of English wine, as more local producers seek to align with authorized distributors to expand their reach.
Harrow & Hope was founded in 2010 by Henry and Kay Laithwaite on a 6.5 hectare vineyard in Marlow. The site, located on a south-facing slope, benefits from unique geological conditions. The vineyard's soil – formed more than 450,000 years ago by the River Thames cutting through the Chilterns Chalk – is a mixture of clay, flint and gravel. In the lower parts of the vineyard, the soil turns pure chalk, ideal for growing classic, sparkling grape varieties such as Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier.
The Laithwaites have purchased a plot of land to produce sparkling wines that showcase the best of the English region. The vineyard was certified organic in 2023, and despite being relatively new to the scene, Harrow & Hope has already made a name for itself in the competitive world of sparkling wine. In 2013, the Laithwaites completed construction of the winery under the guidance of notable wine industry figures, including the late Tony Jordan, former CEO of Domaine Chandon in Australia, and Ridgeview's Mike Roberts, a pioneer of English sparkling wine.
Since then, Harrow & Hope has won numerous accolades. Her most recent achievement was receiving a trophy and gold medal at the 2024 WineGB Awards for her 2018 Blanc de Blancs.
Commenting on the new partnership, Peter Mitchell MW, Wine Director at Jeroboams, described Harrow & Hope as “a true pioneer in the English wine scene” and praised the Laithwaites’ ability to produce complex wines from relatively young vines. “Henry’s extensive experience and determination to make great wines really shine through,” Mitchell said. “The awards they have won are a testament to that.”
The partnership will see Harrow & Hope wines displayed in Jeroboams' ten retail stores, as well as being made available to purchase online and through Jeroboams' on-trade channels.
Henry Laithwaite, chief executive of Harrow & Hope, expressed optimism about the new arrangement. “We are extremely proud of the new partnership between Harrow & Hope and Jeroboams,” he said. He highlighted the shared values between the two companies, particularly the focus on family and building sincere relationships: “We admire their spirit and ambition, and look forward to joining their prestigious and vibrant portfolio.”
Jeroboams sales director, Lucy Parker, added that Harrow & Hope's wines are a welcome addition to the distributor's portfolio, noting that they “taste incredible, offer great value and have a real story.” With five wines available on the market, Jeroboams is keen to introduce wine to sommeliers, restaurant buyers and independent retailers.
Wines include Harrow & Hope Brut Reserve No. 8 (£33.50), Harrow & Hope Rosé 2020 (£33.95) and Harrow & Hope Blanc de Blancs 2018 (£39.95). All are now available through Jeroboams stores, online platform and merchant website.
