Britain uncorked: winemaking in the UK

The UK wine industry is flourishing, and is set to grow by £100 million this year. As such, we present – with the help of Sykes Cottages – this infographic detailing all manner of facts about the booming industry.

Around 3.15 million bottles of wine are produced in England and Wales every year, with the market being made up from 66% sparkling white, 24% still white and 10% red/rose.

The top three grape varieties planted in the UK are Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Bacchus.

Currently there are 135 wineries in the UK, occupying 580 vineyards. However, the rate at which this is set to grow is staggering, with HMRC figures showing 41% more winery applications in the past year.

The majority of vineyards are in the south of the UK; there are 140 vineyards in the south west and 148 in the south east alone, though wine is being made as far north as Scotland.

Wine made in the UK is increasingly being bought abroad, with exports contributing to the £100m growth in the industry predicted for this year.

And it’s winning the top awards, with English sparkling wine especially giving Champagne a run for its money.