A HAMPSHIRE-based vineyard struck gold at the recent Wine GB Awards.

Raimes, based in Tichborne, topped the Classic Cuvee Vintage category, taking home a gold medal.

The awards were a little different this year due to the health crisis, with a reduced judging panel.

This was made up of Susie Barrie, Oz Clarke, and Rebecca Palmer, wine buyer of Corney and Barrow.

"We are absolutely thrilled to win a gold medal for our Classic,” says Augusta Raimes, owner of Raimes English Sparkling.

“This 2015 release follows in the footsteps of our highly acclaimed 2014 Classic so we are delighted the latest release has achieved similar recognition.”

Judges described Raimes Classic 2015, which is produced in the traditional method from classic grape varieties, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier as 'fascinating stuff'.

Gold medals were also awarded to other Hampshire-based producers: Hattingley Valley, Jenkyn Place, Black Chalk and The Grange Estates.

Susie Barrie said: "There are some very strong winners, both sparkling and still wines, in all categories.

"It was particularly pleasing to see new producers competing alongside long-established ones, proving that the UK is an ever-growing and hugely exciting region to watch.

Congratulations to every single medal winner, you can feel very proud of what you have achieved.”