The UK wine industry is marking 2024 with a major shift in regulations, marking a new chapter in its history.
On December 31, Environment Minister Steve Barclay announced the abolition of several EU-derived regulations, a move aimed at revitalizing the sector.
This decision, arising from the United Kingdom's exit from the European Union, aims to stimulate innovation, promote sustainable practices, and reduce the burden on companies.
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Expanding the vineyard and its economic impact
Since the turn of the millennium, the UK viticultural landscape has changed dramatically.
The UK now boasts nearly 900 vineyards, a four-fold increase in land devoted to grape growing since 2000. This thriving sector, which employs nearly 2,300 full-time people, is expected to see a 50 per cent increase in employment opportunities. Work by 2025.
In 2023, WineGB reports an unprecedented grape harvest in Great Britain, expected to produce between 20 and 22 million bottles.
This harvest exceeds the previous record recorded by Britain in 2018 by more than 50 percent. Furthermore, English sparkling wine, particularly favored in the southern regions, has seen a notable rise in demand, with production reaching 8.3 million bottles last year.
Regulatory changes
From 1 January 2024, English sparkling wine producers will be exempt from the obligation to use mushroom stoppers and foil caps on bottles.
This change allows for simpler packaging, which is expected to reduce waste and lower costs. In addition, restrictions on the production and sale of Piquet, a low-alcohol drink made from grape remains, will be lifted.
This opens new revenue avenues for producers and meets growing consumer interest in low-alcohol options.
Environment Secretary Steve Barclay said: “Brexit gives us the opportunity to review and abolish outdated and burdensome rules that have been holding our wine sector back.”
'The reforms we are introducing… will help our wine producers and merchants become more profitable, dynamic and sustainable – while freeing them from meaningless red tape.'
“We welcome the additional choice that comes from this first phase of action from the Wine Reform Consultation,” commented Nicola Bates, CEO of WineGB.
“There will be producers keen to take advantage of all options to reduce materials used in bottles, so we can expect to see fewer flakes on sparkling bottles, allowing you to celebrate that a little faster, and with an environmental benefit.”
“We look forward to working with the government and the Defra team on future consultations, which I am sure will be as constructive as the one being undertaken now.”
To further enhance flexibility, the government recently announced that businesses will have the option to sell pre-packaged and sparkling wines in 500ml and 200ml sizes and a new 'pint' size of 568ml.
The reforms, which come into force from 1 January 2024, follow a consultation on simplifying the complex 400-page rulebook governing wine, with the aim of facilitating international trade and domestic growth.
Global importance
The UK wine market, valued at more than £10 billion in 2022, plays a pivotal role in the global wine trade, ranking as the world's second largest wine importer by value.
Although the domestic winemaking sector in England and Wales is relatively modest, it is growing rapidly and winning global acclaim for its quality.
Reports from 2022 indicate a 36 percent increase in production and 74 percent growth in vineyard area since 2017.
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