Bordeaux dry whites drive growth in UK

Bordeaux wines are selling well in the UK, growing by 14.2% in volume and 18.6% in value, according to market research firm IRI.

Figures from French Customs support this, showing exports of Bordeaux to the UK rising by 18% in 2013. A key reason for the growth is the success of dry white wines which rose by 53%. The UK is now Bordeaux’s largest export market for its dry white wines, accounting for 18% of all Bordeaux UK sales.

Douglas Morton, UK Consultant to the Conseil Interprofessionnel du Vin Bordeaux, (CIVB) said: “Dry white Bordeaux provides a strong marketing opportunity. These easy to drink, often Sauvignon Blanc based wines, are a means of attracting younger and more female wine-drinkers to the Bordeaux category.”

He added: “Bordeaux is firmly positioned in the £6+ segment of the market. This is where we see the market continuing to grow (+59% in 2013) and where we currently sell 42% of our wines. The £6+ sector has the potential to bring more value to the supply chain which benefits the industry in general.”