UK vineyards have surpassed the milestone of 1,000 vineyards, marking a 9.2% increase from the previous year, with 1,030 vineyards now registered. Sales of English and Welsh wines grew by 10% in 2023. There are now 221 wineries, and the total area under vine has reached 4,209 hectares, reflecting a 123% growth over the past decade. Production in 2023 was a record 161,960.84 hectolitres, equivalent to 21.6 million bottles, a 77% increase from 2022.
Wine sales have consistently risen, with a 10% increase to 8.8 million bottles in 2023. Sales of sparkling wine surged by 187% since 2018, and still wine sales increased by 117%. This growth contrasts with the declining trends in UK and global wine consumption. WineGB has declared 2024 as the ‘year of growth,’ focusing on wine tourism, the UK market, and exports to support industry expansion.
Sales channels have diversified post-pandemic, with on-trade sales growing to 28% and exports rising to 8%. Direct-to-consumer sales and independent retail remain significant for smaller producers, while larger producers rely more on trade sales.
The UK now cultivates over 90 grape varieties, with the top varieties being Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, Bacchus, and Seyval Blanc. Planting of hybrid varieties is increasing, making up 8% of total plantings. In 2023, 76% of UK wine production was sparkling, 23% still wine, and 1% other products like Vermouth. Traditional methods dominate sparkling wine production, while white wines comprise the majority of still wine production.
