Cheers to our Official Celebration Partner, Hambledon Wine Estate

Every achievement is a cork-popping moment, that’s why for the Clipper 2025-26 Race, those that take on the challenge of racing the world’s most gruelling oceans, will be saying cheers to their endeavours with a chilled pour of Hambledon Wine Estate’s English Sparkling Wine.  

As the Official Celebration Partner, Hampshire based Hambledon, the birthplace of English Wine, will commemorate the race’s pivotal moments with its Finest English Sparking Wine. Glasses of its renowned Classic Cuvée will be toasted at yacht naming ceremonies, arrival celebrations, as well as highly anticipated Prizegivings, to help Race Crew commemorate their momentous achievements.  

The partnership joins together two brands whose company values align on excellence, heritage and global ambition. As the Clipper Race circumnavigates the globe, Hambledon will become synonymous with moments of celebration, no matter how big or small.  

“Hambledon Wine Estate is thrilled to partner with the Clipper Race on this extraordinary global journey,” said Hambledon Managing Director, James Osborn. “Hambledon and the Clipper Race share a pioneering spirit - our founder, Sir Guy Salisbury-Jones, planted England’s first commercial vineyard, just as Sir Robin Knox-Johnston changed history sailing solo around the world.  

“That ambition, resilience and drive for excellence is at the heart of our partnership. As Clipper Race Crew learn new skills, overcome challenges, and create lifelong memories, we’ll be there to celebrate every moment, big or small, from the start line in Portsmouth to the final leg of this remarkable adventure next summer.”  

Hambledon will host a VIP launch dinner at its estate’s vineyard the night before Race Start, welcome crew at the estate for vineyard tours and tastings and create a special edition Clipper Race sparkling wine for retail at Hambledon’s newly opened Cellar Door shop, as well as online, and in race villages. On-site activations will also take place at stopover ports in the UK, USA, and Asia, promoting Hambledon to a global audience.  

Clipper Race Head of Sponsorship, Kate Ashely, said: “Every moment of achievement on the Clipper Race is hard-earned and deeply personal for our crew. We’re proud to mark those milestones with something special. This partnership brings together two brands united by a pioneering ethos and adventurous spirit, and we’re especially proud to be taking an exceptional English wine to the world stage.” 

Clipper Race fans and spectators are invited to watch the fleet depart from Gunwharf Quays, Portsmouth on 31 August, either from the shore or from the water by joining a flotilla of recreational boats for an unforgettable view of the action. Come along, celebrate the Clipper Race crew and sample the award-winning Hambledon sparkling wine.