A MEDSTEAD vineyard is the latest producer to join the Hampshire Fare.

Sparkling wine maker Hattingley Valley, located at Lower Wield near Alresford, has joined the fare as a corporate partner.

The vineyard, which has been operating since it was first planted in 2008, is already among the top 20 largest UK wine growers.

Simon Robinson, chairman of Hattingley Valley, said: “We are delighted to join Hampshire Fare, which is a very natural partner for us, and we look forward to a long and successful partnership, helping to promote a great county which produces fantastic products.

“As well as creating great wines for everyone to enjoy, our grape growing and winery operations significantly boost rural employment; in addition viticulture is a very attractive diversification for many farmers.”

Mike Wright, chairman of Hampshire Fare, said: “We are delighted to welcome Hattingley Valley as our corporate partners, particularly as they already represent Hampshire across Europe and around the world and show what our local producers can achieve.”