Dorset’s Langham Wine Estate has partnered with sculptor Simon Gudgeon to create a unique label based on his ‘Search for Enlightenment’ bronze sculpture.

Only 1,143 bottles have been produced of Langham’s limited edition still ‘Search for Enlightenment’ Chardonnay.

Langham Wine Estate’s core focus is sparkling wine which earned them the coveted Best Sparkling Wine Producer award at the International Wine and Spirit Competition (IWSC) in 2020.

However, the Chardonnay from the 2022 harvest was so exceptional that Head Winemaker Tommy Grimshaw has created a small batch.

Tommy said: “Although our main focus is to constantly improve the quality of our sparkling wines, occasionally an opportunity arises to craft a beautiful still wine.

“The warm 2022 vintage gave us the perfect chance, so we had to take it up.

“This wine is a pure expression of Chardonnay from our patch of Dorset and will pair perfectly with the seafood this county is rightly so proud of.”

Simon Gudgeon’s ‘Search for Enlightenment’ sculpture was first exhibited on London’s Millbank in 2010, before being moved to a permanent home on Carriageway Drive outside One Hyde Park.

Outside of the UK, the sculpture also features at Cirque du Soleil International Headquarters in Montreal.

An edition of ‘Search for Enlightenment’ can also be found at Simon’s Dorset sculpture park, Sculpture by the Lakes, just five miles from Langham Wine Estate.

Justin Langham, Managing Director, said: “As another Dorset business that we admire greatly, we thought using Simon’s beautiful sculpture on our Chardonnay label offered a lovely synergy.

“As with Simon’s sculptures, we want our wines to be seen as creative and thought provoking.

“We are exceptionally proud of this vintage.”

Simon said: “Working with Langham Wine has been an absolute delight.

“Their commitment to excellence and passion for their craft aligns perfectly with our own dedication to creating an exceptional sculpture park and visitor experience, a combination that stimulates all the senses.”

The 2022 vintage is 100% Chardonnay and made from 100% taille (pressed juice).

The grapes were hand picked from rows 17-34 in the estate’s Bowling Green vineyard and then whole bunch pressed.

It was then fermented and aged in four used French oak barrels from Champagne, Bordeaux and Burgundy, which offers a very light oaked taste.

It then underwent full malolactic fermentation. As with all Langham’s wines, it is unfined and unfiltered.

Langham’s Limited Edition ‘Search for Enlightenment’ Chardonnay is priced at £23.95 and available to buy at langhamwine.co.uk.