One of the county's biggest vineyards has appointed an industry expert to held spearhead its sales push.

Tenterden-based Chapel Down, which recently opened up a brewer to create its Curious Brew beer brand in Ashford, revealed Martin McGowan has become its new sales director.

He joins the group after eight years with Treasury Wine Estates, one of the world's largest winemaking companies.

He will lead the group's drive for further distribution across the on- and off-trade for Chapel Down and Curious Brewing products.

Mr McGowan said: “With the opening of the Curious Brewery in Ashford, the iconic Gin Works in London and as we continue to lead the charge in English wine, I absolutely believe we are England’s most exciting drinks company."

McGowan has 15 years experience in the industry working for international beer, wine and sprits brands, including Courvoisier, Stolichnaya, Wolfblass, Penfolds and Carlsberg, and has managed customers in key sectors including major multiples, impulse/convenience, cash & carry and on-trade.

He has secured year-on-year sales growth in 14 out of 15 years in the industry.

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