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by James Bailey
Published: September 11, 2024
Despite a 4% decline in the UK wine market overall, French wines recorded a 6% growth, driven by a 21% increase in wines from the Languedoc-Roussillon region.
Notable performances include a 37% increase in sales of AOP rosé wines from Languedoc, a 20% increase in sales of AOP white wines and a 15% growth in sales of AOP red wines. Sales of AOP red wines from Languedoc also saw a significant growth of 31% and now account for 60% of AOP red wine sales in the region.
Meanwhile, white wines, led by Picpoul de Pinet (+40%), together with AOP Languedoc, account for 97% of Languedoc white wine sales in the UK. This was boosted by Limoux AOP, which saw impressive growth, up 76%.
Languedoc's rosé wine production has doubled in two years, reflecting the region's growing popularity.
Once a major wine producer, the region is now synonymous with independent winemakers focused on quality and environmentally conscious cooperatives. The region’s shift towards sustainable agriculture is also evident, with nearly 30% of producers certified sustainable, and the goal is to reach 60% by 2028.
Benefiting from the diversity of its terroir and the influence of the Mediterranean climate, the Languedoc region produces a wide range of wines that suit modern tastes. Coastal areas such as Picpoul-de-Pinet offer fresh, aromatic white wines, while inland areas such as Terrasse de Larzac are known for their robust red wines. This diversity has helped the region gain a foothold in export markets.
The region spans four French regions and is home to more than 1,200 independent wineries, 550 cooperatives and 150 wine merchants. More than 20 production areas and 12 geographic zones cover diverse regions and climatic influences, contributing to wine production.
CIVL, the region’s multi-professional body, continues to promote Languedoc in the UK with events planned for 2024, including the Picpoul de Pinet trade event and regional wine promotion. It also plans to hold press events and engage wine professionals further through the Languedoc Quiz series, with events scheduled for Birmingham and Glasgow.
