Founded in 2018, Luddesdown-based MDCV UK owns the largest single organic vineyard in the UK, with over 900 acres under vine. Its sustainability journey has been transformative, transitioning from conventional to fully organic, achieving carbon-negative status in 2024 (audited by the Farm Carbon Toolkit) and establishing a dedicated Conservation Department.
Like most of the industry, retaining and indeed finding a skilled workforce can be a juggling act. To improve the situation, MDCV has gone all out to partner with several bodies, including the Ministry of Defence, to support career transitions. The company also works closely with the Skills and Employment Project Officer and Strategic Lead for Kent and Medway Careers and many more in the education system.
Building and maintaining strong relationships with the local community is essential, along with collaborating with regular events such as the Harvest Community Pick Days, as well as work with the Parish Council by attending the two monthly meetings.
The company also provides open access to its estate for recreational and educational purposes. These efforts foster goodwill and ensure growth is inclusive and locally supported. The company works closely with the Luddesdown Society with events each summer. In addition, there is support for several other local sports teams, and there is regular attendance at fetes, community events and markets across neighbouring villages.
The company was proud to have won The Sunday Times Top 100 Best Places to Work 2026, an achievement reflecting a strong commitment to employee wellbeing, engagement and workplace culture. This recognition is awarded to organisations that demonstrate excellence in areas such as leadership, inclusivity, professional development, and ensuring employees feel supported, valued and motivated in their roles.
At MDCV UK, environmental responsibility is not a side initiative: it is embedded in the very fabric of the business.
From vineyard to bottle, every decision is guided by a commitment to sustainability, biodiversity and long-term ecological stewardship.
The company is proud to be the first vineyard in the UK to achieve carbon-negative status without offsetting, as verified by the Farm Carbon Toolkit. This milestone reflects years of investment in regenerative farming, organic certification and habitat restoration.
The entire estate is managed organically and certified by Demeter, with zero use of synthetic chemicals, in-row cover cropping and a dedicated composting zone to recycle all green waste.
