Ridgeview Wine Estate finds new owner after administration

After entering administration in September, one of England’s best-known sparkling wine estates has been acquired by an investor group. The sale secures the future of the Sussex producer and marks a significant leadership change.

Ridgeview Wine Estate has been acquired by QBRidge Ltd, an investor consortium led by The Quantum Beverage Company (QBev), for an undisclosed sum. The sale follows the appointment of joint administrators Phil Harris and Neville Side of FRP Advisory on 22 September 2025, as reported by the drinks business.

According to a statement from QBev, the acquisition provides Ridgeview with capital and strategic support to pursue growth in the UK and international markets. The estate, founded in 1995 by Mike and Chris Roberts, has operated without interruption during the administration process.

Leadership transition

Alongside the change of ownership, QBev confirmed that Gregg Ainsworth, co-founder and chief marketing officer of QBev, has been appointed ceo of Ridgeview, with Allan Beattie of QBev becoming cfo. Both appointments take effect immediately.

Ainsworth described Ridgeview as “a truly exceptional brand with an outstanding reputation for quality and innovation”, adding: “We see enormous potential in the business, and this acquisition reflects our confidence in both the existing team and the long-term opportunity for English sparkling wine.”

He added, “Ridgeview is an exciting opportunity for us. It’s a standard bearer and pioneer in English sparkling wine, a category enjoying strong growth and set to see a robust future.”

Roberts family to remain involved

QBev said it intends to build on “the strong foundations laid by the Roberts family”, who founded the estate and will continue to be involved in the business.

The release confirmed that Tamara Roberts is stepping down as ceo after 21 years at Ridgeview. She became ceo in 2014 and has been a significant figure in the rise of English sparkling wine, overseeing a period of expansion and investment.

Following her appointment as chair of trustees at WSET, Roberts will remain involved in championing Ridgeview and the wider category, according to the statement.

Her brother, Simon Roberts, head winemaker, will remain with the business.

QBev outlines its investment approach

QBev described its team as beverage professionals with more than 100 years of collective global experience. It also said it is a multi-million-pound platform seeking to invest in “unique and compelling premium adult beverage brands”.

Ainsworth said: “Our goal is to revitalise undervalued brands, champion innovation, sustainability, and e-commerce; while harnessing consumer and customer expertise to drive exponential growth.”

Fero supports transition as funding partner

Fero acted as a funding and supply chain partner during the process, according to QBev.

Mitch Fowler, ceo of Fero, said: “We were pleased to support Ridgeview through this process and help facilitate an outcome that truly unlocks the potential of the brand. The Quantum Beverage Company and their team bring a wealth of experience from the industry, the right strategic focus and investment approach to support Ridgeview’s long-term success. We are excited to see the business move forward.”

QBev said the transaction will ensure continuity for Ridgeview while providing a platform for investment and innovation.

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