New Zealand wine enjoyed a white Christmas this year, following the release of the latest performance figures of all wine in the UK market.
In the four-week period leading up to 28 December 2024, New Zealand white wine was the country of origin leader in the Still White Wine Category, with value growth up 7.3% and volume growth up 9.7% compared to the same period last year.
Annual Scan data compiled by Nielsen IQ shows New Zealand maintained a high average price of £8.09 per bottle, well above the market average of £6.69. MAT Value growth was up 9.2% and Volume up 9.8%.
Chris Stroud, New Zealand Winegrowers’ Market Manager UK Europe says “We are delighted to see the continued strong performance of New Zealand white wine this past year, but particularly so over the busy Christmas period. We know consumers like to treat themselves and trade up over the festive season, so it is pleasing to see New Zealand as the white wine of choice.
“Sauvignon Blanc remains the driver for this growth accounting for £1 out of every £2 spent on Sauvignon Blanc in the UK, however, we are also seeing increased listings and performance with other white New Zealand varieties, such as Pinot Gris, which offers an opportunity for retailers to further premiumise the category.”
However, it’s not only white wine winning over consumers. New Zealand red wines also enjoyed successful performance with the average price per bottle commanding over £10.50, further showing UK consumers trust ‘brand New Zealand’ and are willing to pay a premium for it.
New Zealand Winegrowers has a busy start to 2025 with Annual Trade tastings taking place in Dublin, London and Edinburgh at the end of January, in collaboration with Wine Australia. Catalogues are now available and Trade can register here.
Attention then turns to Pinot Noir New Zealand 2025, which is set to take place in Christchurch from 11 – 13 February, returning after an eight-year hiatus.
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Editor’s notes
New Zealand Winegrowers is the national organisation for the country's grape and wine sector, with over 600 grower members and 700 winery members.
New Zealand Winegrowers images can be found here.
• New Zealand wine exports reached $2.1 billion to June year end 2024.
• Exports to the UK totalled $440 million representing 21% of total exports.
• New Zealand wine is exported to more than 100 countries and is New Zealand’s 6th largest export good.
• The 2024 harvest was 395,000 tonnes.
Nielsen IQ is a consumer intelligence company that provides data on UK retail and consumer spending.
Pinot Noir New Zealand 2025
Taking place 11–13 February 2025 in Ōtautahi, Christchurch, Pinot Noir New Zealand is a three-day gathering for wine lovers and industry professionals, celebrating the rich heritage and future of New Zealand Pinot Noir. This event brings together the best of New Zealand’s winemakers and global wine enthusiasts to explore, taste, and discuss the vibrant world of Pinot Noir. Plenary sessions will delve into the value, guardianship, and future of our place via key speakers such as Eric Asimov, Tim Flannery, Mimi Casteel and Damon Gameau. Celebrated chefs will deliver a uniquely New Zealand culinary programme, bringing a true sense of Whanaungatanga, kinship and family connection. See the full programme and secure your seat at the table. Tickets are available now – pinotnz.co.nz.
For further information contact:
Chris Stroud
Market Manager - UK Europe, New Zealand Winegrowers,
cstroud@nzwine.com
Chrissy Powlesland
Communications Manager, New Zealand Winegrowers,
chrissy.powlesland@nzwine.com