Record UK grape harvest to produce up to 22 million bottles of wine

While it remains to be seen if 2023 will be an excellent vintage for domestic wine producers, a closely-watched industry report suggests bumper grape crops from near-perfect growing conditions.

British wine manufacturers are believed to have smashed grape production records this year and are optimistic 2023 will be a good vintage, according to an industry body.

WineGB said a “miracle” crop – thanks to strong yields, new vine plantations and good weather – meant an estimated 20 million to 22 million bottles would be produced.

Nicola Bates, chief executive of WineGB, said: “UK consumers are drinking more and more home produce and at the same time exports are going up, especially in the Nordics and Japan.