Reuters is reporting that Spanish red wine exports to the UK have dropped by 7.5% in value during the first four months of 2025, largely due to new British tariffs based on alcohol content. These changes, introduced in February, have hit Spanish wines hardest, especially reds, which typically contain more than 12.5% alcohol due to Spain’s warmer climate. This higher alcohol content now attracts significantly steeper duties, causing prices for UK importers to rise by around 20%.
Spanish producers say this has made their wines less competitive compared to French and Italian exports, which have seen smaller declines of 6% and 6.7% respectively. Winemakers note that, while some importers are turning to lighter wines to reduce costs, British consumers still prefer wines with body and strength, characteristics closely tied to alcohol levels. The shift in tariffs comes on top of the additional costs and difficulties brought on by Brexit, deepening concern among Spanish exporters about their future in what has long been a key market.
