In a strategic move aimed at cultivating the English sparkling wine sector within China, ASC Fine Wines, a prominent fine wine importer and distributor, has forged a partnership with Rathfinny Estate.
The dynamic alliance between ASC Fine Wines and Rathfinny Estate seeks to establish and elevate the prominence of English sparkling wines within the Chinese market.
Distinguished for its specialization in catering to the premium on-trade segment in China, ASC Fine Wines has united forces with Rathfinny Estate, a wine enterprise founded in 2010 by the enterprising couple Mark and Sarah Driver. Rathfinny Estate’s objective is to secure a foothold in the upscale dining domain of China’s major metropolises. Having debuted its inaugural collection of sparkling wines in 2018, the brand presently boasts listings in prominent UK establishments such as The Dorchester, Dinner by Heston, The Fat Duck, Claridge’s, The Savoy, Le Gavroche, The Ritz, Harrods, Harvey Nichols, and Selfridge’s.
Mark Driver, co-owner of Rathfinny, expressed his perspective on the collaboration: “Our aspiration has consistently revolved around positioning ourselves as a cherished English sparkling wine producer within the on-trade arena. ASC, possessing perhaps the most extensive outreach among wine importers, serves as an impeccable conduit for Rathfinny in terms of distribution.”
Driver underscored that ASC’s diverse wine portfolio, acclaimed as “among the most distinguished,” is poised to enable Rathfinny’s wines to grace the tables of elite restaurants, bars, and hotels across China.
Initiating the journey with the planting of the first 50 acres of vines at Rathfinny Estate in 2012, the establishment now boasts an expansive 230-acre vineyard primarily cultivated with Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Pinot Meunier varietals.
The Sussex-based estate’s production of vintage sparkling wines adheres to traditional methods with minimal intervention. Grapes, harvested by hand, undergo whole-bunch pressing. Notably, the wine producer proudly holds B Corp certification, attesting to its commitment to elevated standards of social and environmental responsibility, as well as transparency.
Commenting on the partnership’s significance, Mario Aron, Chief Operating Officer of ASC Fine Wines, conveyed: “Mark and Sarah have shared their vision that, in the near future, patrons frequenting bars and restaurants across China will encounter English sparkling wine embodying the essence of authentic British lifestyle and a discerning appreciation for exceptional quality. Rathfinny, undoubtedly, embodies this ethos. The brand seamlessly aligns with ASC’s aspirations for premium wine offerings. Capitalizing on ASC’s extensive and efficient distribution network throughout China, combined with the renowned professionalism of our team, I am confident that Mark and Sarah’s vision will promptly evolve into reality.”
While exports constituted a mere 4% of total UK wine sales in 2021, this marked a remarkable 21% surge compared to the preceding year. Such statistics underscore the escalating potential of international sales for the burgeoning sector. Leading this trend was Scandinavia, particularly Norway, which witnessed an impressive 85% surge in wine sales in 2021. Further insights into these statistics can be explored here.
