In December 2022, a first-of-its-kind strategy was launched to set the future of the Welsh wine industry into focus over the next twelve years and increase the sector’s current value by 10-fold to reach £100 million by 2035.
Developed at a pivotal time for Welsh vineyards, with the support of the Welsh Government’s Drinks Cluster, the industry-led strategy was designed to ensure Wales builds on its emerging reputation as an experimental producer of varying wines, following some impressive successes in recent years that have been rewarded with a number of international awards.
The new industry strategy, launched at the Coal Exchange Hotel celebrated Wales’ achievements over the past year, including Welsh wine sales which, alongside English wine, increased by 31.3% to 9.3 million bottles in 2021. With the strategy in place as a framework for growth, Wales will continue to forge its own path.
With over 30 vineyards now operating across the country, Wales’ status as an innovative producer of high-quality wine has gone from strength to strength thanks to its pioneering vineyard owners, the fantastic fruit that is grown as well as Wales’ distinctive microclimate and landscape.
There are many similarities to New Zealand which has gone from small scale to internationally renowned in the last 30 years overcoming similar climate and landscape challenges.
With YouGov research showing that 87% of UK holiday-goers think that their food and drink experiences are important while on holiday, and 62% believing it is important that the food and drink provided is sourced locally, Welsh vineyards will make the most of the connection between Welsh food and wine and strengthen their relationship with the tourism sector.
In addition to tourism, the strategy outlines four further strategic pillars as paving the future for Welsh wine – building a strong online presence, organisation, skills, and Welsh wine identity and brand.
So, whether you're a wine connoisseur or a curious newbie, you won't want to miss out on the exciting journey that the Welsh wine industry is embarking on. Get ready to discover the new wave of Welsh wine and join us as we raise a glass to the exciting future of the Welsh wine industry!