Rise of Cremant

Crémant is enjoying a lively boom as Champagne sales slow, with UK retailers reporting strong demand and producers across France expanding output.

It seems Crémant is on a roll, while French wine exports fell again in 2024 and Champagne shipments dropped 9.2%, Crémant surged ahead as budget-conscious drinkers sought celebratory sparkle without the premium price tag.

Producers shipped 114.5 million bottles last year, up 5.9%, with Henkell Freixenet reporting a remarkable 16% rise.

UK retailers are seeing the same uplift. Morrisons now sells six times more Crémant than when it first launched the style, while Waitrose reports 9% growth and sold out of its £10 Crémant deal. Marks & Spencer has also expanded its range after a “massive surge” in interest.

Across regions such as the Loire and Alsace, producers highlight value, freshness and regional character. With extended ageing, hand-harvesting and diverse styles, Crémant is increasingly seen as an accessible and exciting alternative to Champagne.