Jasper Raats

The Path

Jasper Raats trained at Grey College before his career took a turn toward the vineyards, where the disciplined rhythm of winegrowing became the backdrop to his professional life. From 2003, he worked at Clos Henri in the Marlborough region, New Zealand, serving as viticulturist and winemaker — a dual role that placed him at the meeting point of vineyard and cellar, where decisions made among the rows would eventually shape the wine in the glass. That foundation in both growing and making has remained central to his work. Today, Jasper is partner of Vigneron Consulting and Cellar Master, General Manager, and shareholder of Longridge Wine Estate, roles that reflect a career built not only on craft, but on stewardship, oversight, and an understanding of wine as something shaped patiently from the ground up.

The Work Today

At Longridge Wine Estate, Jasper is Cellar Master and Managing Director, guiding a style that leans into precision, restraint, and the character of individual sites. The estate’s focus on single-vineyard wines mirrors his own stated philosophy: “Our philosophy is simple – we want to make enjoyable wines that are healthy to drink and of a world-class standard.” It is a concise statement, but one that suggests both ambition and discipline, pairing pleasure with seriousness and aiming for wines that feel considered rather than forced. He has also said, “Our goal is to produce world-class wines in a natural way, applying the age-old traditions of natural winemaking and respecting our land, by not using any herbicides, pesticides or chemical sprays.” In those words, the emphasis falls on balance — world-class quality achieved through methods that remain close to the land and attentive to its limits. His role at Longridge is not confined to the cellar alone; as Managing Director and shareholder, he helps carry the broader responsibility of the estate, from philosophy to execution.

Signature

Jasper's signature dishes include Basket & Barrel (Pinot Noir), Concrete and Clay 2024, Olindo, SKERENZO, and Die Plek. Each of these names sits like a marker along the arc of his work, suggesting a body of wines shaped by place, texture, and a clear point of view. Basket & Barrel (Pinot Noir) carries the familiarity of one of wine’s most expressive varieties, while Concrete and Clay 2024 hints at structure and materiality, and Olindo, SKERENZO, and Die Plek extend the picture with their own distinct identities.

In Their Words “Our goal is to produce world-class wines in a natural way, applying the age-old traditions of natural winemaking and respecting our land, by not using any herbicides, pesticides or chemical sprays.” “Our philosophy is simple – we want to make enjoyable wines that are healthy to drink and of a world-class standard.”

Acclaim

His most visible distinction is his leadership at Longridge Wine Estate, where he is involved in cellar work and management while supporting the estate’s single-vineyard, natural winemaking approach. The recognition here is less about a trophy case than about sustained responsibility: a professional presence felt across the estate’s daily workings, and a role that connects the practical demands of the cellar with the larger ideals that shape the wines.