It is with great sadness that we announce that the founder of Exton Park Vineyard, Malcolm Isaac, has passed away at the age of 95.
Part of the pioneering cohort of post-war entrepreneurs, Malcolm and his brother were largely responsible for the resurrection of the flagging watercress industry. Following a Nuffield Farming Scholarship to the USA, Malcolm introduced baby leaf salads to the UK market and completely modernised the UK salad industry. Farms in Portugal, Spain, Kenya and the USA soon followed – creating a highly successful and profitable business, Vitacress Salads Ltd.
After the sale of Vitacress in 2008 Malcolm bought Exton Park Vineyard in 2009 and it became a real passion project. Working with Fred Langdale in the vineyard and winemaker Corinne Seely the results are apparent to anyone that visits the estate or tastes Exton Park wines.
Malcolm was Exton Park’s visionary and our inspiration, always taking a long-term view, with the Vineyard being very dear to his heart. He has put in place all the necessary support to ensure Exton Park Vineyard remains true to his vision and continues to prosper for many years to come.
“I always believed our chalk vineyard in Hampshire could produce world-class sparkling wine that would stand the test of time, and I wasn’t wrong”
Malcolm Isaac.
