“Britain Boosts Domestic Wine Production by Lifting EU-Era Regulations”

London. Britain is looking to boost domestic wine production by lifting rules from the EU era. “These reforms will give our winegrowers a rocket boost,” said Agriculture Minister Therese Coffey. “They will boost the economy, create jobs and support an important part of our food and drink sector.” The measures are expected to free up to £180m (€207m) for investment, Coffey said.

According to government information, restrictions that previously prevented the production of new blends are now being lifted. Bottlers are also allowed to convert imported wine into sparkling wine. Packaging regulations – such as sealing foil for certain sparkling wines – will also be lifted to allow for cheaper alternatives.

“For too long, our producers have been held back by cumbersome, legacy EU regulations,” Coffey said. “We give them the freedom they need to thrive.” The head of the Wine and Spirit Trade Association, Miles Beale, welcomed the innovation. “With the introduction of greater flexibility, wine producers and importers will not be forced to do anything differently but will be able to innovate,” said Beale.

Most exports to Norway, USA, Canada and Australia

British wine production has recently increased significantly. Chapel Down, one of the largest producers, announced that sales had increased by more than 50 percent in 2022 to a record 790,000 bottles. According to industry information, the area under cultivation has grown by 70 percent in the past five years. Mainly white and sparkling wines are produced. The growing areas are mainly in southern England, where there is a mild climate due to the Gulf Stream. The most important export countries are Norway, the USA, Canada and Australia. Compared to traditional wine countries such as Italy, France or Germany, however, Great Britain lags far behind.

The conservative government has announced that it will let numerous laws from the EU period expire at the end of the year. Instead of the initially announced 4,000 laws, only about 600 are now said to be affected. Hard-liner conservatives accuse Prime Minister Rishi Sunak of “betraying” Brexit. Experts emphasize, however, that otherwise there would be gaps in labor law and consumer protection.

RND/dpa