Crouch Valley with Matt Cooper and Katie Yesil

This show was published Friday, January 23, 2026

Overview

n this episode, Chris chats with Matt Cooper of Hollands Vineyard and Katie Yesil, co-founder of Riverview Crouch Valley, about the emerging Crouch Valley wine region on England’s east coast. They discuss the first-ever Crouch Valley Wine Fair, held in Chelmsford in November 2026, which showcased wines from 16 local vineyards.

The Crouch Valley region benefits from the river’s frost protection and low rainfall, producing ripe, high-quality grapes. Chardonnay and Pinot Noir dominate, primarily as still wines, alongside some sparkling, while other varieties such as Bacchus, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris, and Pinot Blanc are now being planted.

Matt and Katie explain the region’s unique structure - it has more vineyards than wineries, with many grapes sold under contract to larger UK producers - and share their vision for the future, including tourism opportunities and raising awareness for this trademarked wine region.

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Music

The music used for the UK Wine Show is Griffes de Jingle 1 by Marcel de la Jartèle and Silence by Etoile Noire.