JIM NOLAN

CEO & FOUNDER
Jim Nolan is Ditchling through and through. He was raised here by his parents and now brings up his own four sons here. They all play sport for the village and his children represent the county at cricket. His parents in law work on the vineyard so this really is a three generation affair. Now, after 25 years in the City of London, he has returned to his roots to blend his business acumen with a love of wine and his profound affection of the Sussex countryside.

ANJA NOLAN

MANAGING DIRECTOR
Anja is the keeper of the Black Dog Hill flame. Acutely aware of our responsibility to the local area, she is a champion of balancing modern winemaking techniques with respect for the landscape and its local history. She attended the world-renowned Plumpton College.

RAY HEASMAN

MANAGING DIRECTOR
Ray is our business brain. His boundless knowledge of civil engineering has enabled all the construction, from the first trellising to the last deer fence post, to be done with sympathy and efficiency.

GUNVOR HEASMAN

MARKETING ADVISOR
Gunvor provides advice on marketing, labelling and PR. Her 30 years of experience in Sussex and upmarket London retailing are key to building both the business and brand.

DERMOT SUGRUE

WINE MAKER
Dermot is a star in the English wine firmament. Having worked extensively in France and in the UK, Dermot set up the innovative new winery at Wiston in West Sussex 2010. His knowledge and profound love for his art are a pleasure to behold. He is widely renowned as one of the UK’s leading wine makers.

THE BOYS

THE PICKERS
Hamish, Oliver, Rufus and Connor have been bought up with the vineyard. They are the backbone and future of Black Dog Hill and have a love and pride of the place that means it will be in safe hands.