COLIN and Judith Dudley of Parva Farm Vineyard in Tintern were honoured to represent the Welsh Vineyards Association (WVA) at a reception at Clarence House, London celebrating the 50th anniversary of the UK Vineyards Association on 25th January.

They were at the event by invitation of Her Royal Highness the Duchess of Cornwall who is president of the UKVA. Colin and Judith are the longest standing Welsh members of the UKVA, having been members for some 20 years.

Their sparkling wine ‘Tintern Parva Dathliad’ was named Welsh Wine of the Year at the UKVA competition in 2016.

They are also founder members of the Welsh Vineyards Association which was set up in 2013.

Other guests at the reception included past chairmen and secretaries of the UKVA, a few original members as well as representatives of some of the English vineyards and the UK wine industry. Some masters of wine and wine judges were also there, including Oz Clark.

Guests were treated to a glass of Highgrove sparkling wine (from the royal estate) when they arrived, along with canapes. Then Her Royal Highness was introduced to the attendees individually. She showed great interest in the work they are doing.

When she was speaking with Colin, she expressed an interest in visiting Parva Farm Vineyard and Colin assured her she would be very welcome!

Next, Sam Lindo, chairman of the UKVA, thanked Her Royal Highness for inviting everyone and proposed a toast to the UKVA. Her Royal Highness then gave a speech about her involvement with the association.

She said that UK wine had now come of age and its high quality is recognized around the world. She wished the association every success in the future. She then cut the cake which was created in the shape of a bottle of sparkling wine surrounded with vine leaves and grapes. Members were presented with a slice of cake when leaving.