The Drinks Business reports that Welsh producers are seeking protected geographical indication status for Natural Wine of Wales, potentially creating the world’s first appellation specifically for natural wine. The proposed rules would require Welsh-grown grapes, spontaneous fermentation in Wales, organic or equivalent farming, no synthetic chemicals, industrial yeasts or processing aids, and tightly limited sulphur additions. Defra has reviewed the application but says further information is still required before it can progress.
Wales
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WineGB Calls on Government for Duty Relief at the Cellar Door
Harpers Wine & Spirit reports that WineGB has launched a campaign seeking excise-duty relief on up to 50,000 bottles sold directly by each English or Welsh producer at its cellar door. WineGB argues that the proposed relief, potentially worth as much as £150,000 per winery, would encourage investment in visitor facilities, rural employment, tourism and exports, while strengthening producers against difficult trading conditions. Collective cellar-door sales currently total about £1.4 million, but the organisation believes the market could expand significantly with government support.
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English and Welsh Winemakers Report Sharp Rise in Production in 2025
The Guardian reports that English and Welsh wine production rose sharply in 2025, reaching about 16.5 million bottles, up 55% on 2024 after a hot, dry summer and continued vineyard expansion. The paper says white wine output more than doubled, although some leading producers still came in below their own averages, and the figures underline how quickly the UK sector is scaling even if it remains small by global standards.
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Welsh Deposit Return Scheme Gets Go-ahead to Include Glass
Drinks Retailing News reports that Wales has been cleared to include glass in its Deposit Return Scheme launching alongside the wider UK system in October 2027, even though England, Scotland and Northern Ireland plan schemes without glass. The article says the Welsh Government expects interoperability across the UK, and notes a transition period to 2031 during which glass would be exempt from labelling requirements and carry a 0p deposit, giving industry more lead-in time. A Welsh Government written statement also frames the move as part of a pathway towards reuse, supported by pilots and further regulation.
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Wales Minimum Unit Price for Alcohol Increases by 30%
The BBC reports that beer and wine prices in Wales are set to rise after the minimum unit price for alcohol increases by 30 per cent, with the rate going up from 50p to 65p per unit from October, meaning a £1 can of lager will cost at least £1.30, a £2.50 bottle of cider will rise to £3.25 and a bottle of whisky will have a minimum price of £18.20 instead of £14, following approval by Senedd members of Welsh government proposals that ministers describe as a landmark move to reduce alcohol-related harm and deaths and to bring Wales into line with Scotland, although the Conservatives argue the policy unfairly penalises responsible drinkers.