Sparkling wine is overtaking champagne as Britain's tipple of choice, according to the latest Mintel report.
Dubbed as Champagne's poorer relation, sparkling wines have seen volume sales grow by 13% on last year.
42 million litres were sold, up 44% since 2002. Meanwhile, champagne volume sales increased by only 24% over the same five-year period to reach 29m litres sold last year.
"Champagne used to be the only accepted choice and sparkling wine was simply seen as a second-rate imitation.
"But sparkling wine growers have now turned the market around by producing consistently good-quality wines," said Mathilde Dudouit, senior market analyst at consumer research group Mintel.
"For many, sparkling wine is now seen as a really enjoyable treat in its own right, and the fact that it costs only a few pounds more than a regular bottle of wine is just an added bonus."
'Cult following'
New world wines, including Jacob's Creek, Hardys Crest and Lindauer have proved particularly popular in the UK market because of their strong branding and reputation for quality.
But English sparkling wine and Spanish Cava are generating a “cult following,” the report revealed. English sparkling wine in particular, is attracting interest and investment, due to affordable land, good soil, warmer weather and quality production.
"Looking to the future, there is real opportunity for sparkling wine producers to also promote their wine as a cocktail ingredient to further boost its image as a glamorous drink amongst the going out crowd," said Dudouit.
French champagne houses Louis Roederer and Duval Leroy have been looking into investment opportunities in English sparkling wine production, while Didier Pierson has already planted vines here.
Overall, Champagne generated £958m last year but sparkling wine sales have risen 20% in volume and 17% in value since 2005 to reach £385m.
Any news about the Prosecco? Its bubbles, texture and flavour are far better than Cava! I'm a great fan of it and it would be very appreciate any other comment!
Many Thanks.
Want more stories delivered to your inbox?
