Wairau River. Image courtesy New Zealand Winegrowers Inc.
The latest performance figures of the UK wine market show white wines from New Zealand enjoyed a strong performance during the festive season.
In the four-week period leading up to 28 December 2024, New Zealand white wine was the country-of-origin leader in the still white wine category, with value growth up 7.3% and volume growth up 9.7% compared to the same period last year.
Annual Scan data compiled by Nielsen IQ shows New Zealand maintained a high average price of £8.09 per bottle, well above the market average of £6.69. MAT Value growth was up 9.2% and Volume up 9.8%.
Chris Stroud, New Zealand Winegrowers’ market manager UK Europe said that he was “delighted” to see such a strong performance, particularly over Christmas.
“We know consumers like to treat themselves and trade up over the festive season, so it is pleasing to see New Zealand as the white wine of choice,” said Stroud.
“Sauvignon Blanc remains the driver for this growth accounting for £1 out of every £2 spent on Sauvignon Blanc in the UK, however, we are also seeing increased listings and performance with other white New Zealand varieties, such as Pinot Gris, which offers an opportunity for retailers to further premiumise the category.”
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