Welsh vineyards and wine producers are welcoming guests from across Wales and beyond to taste what its flourishing wine sector has to offer during the annual Welsh Wine Week.

Celebrating the best of Welsh wine © Hawlfraint y Goron / © Crown copyright (2023) Cymru Wales

Now in its third year and taking place from 2nd to 11th June, events, guided tours and promotions are being held to give wine lovers the chance to discover Wales’ picturesque vineyards and sample the wide range of award-winning wines.

Welsh Wine Week is organised by the Welsh Drinks Cluster, funded by the Welsh Government, which works in partnership with drinks producers and vineyards to promote the industry and its production of world-class products.

Parva Farm Vineyard, Tintern © Hawlfraint y Goron / © Crown copyright (2023) Cymru Wales

Welsh Government Minister for Rural Affairs, North Wales and Trefnydd, Lesley Griffiths, said: “The Welsh wine industry continues to thrive and has tremendous potential to build on what has already been achieved. More and more people each year can enjoy the wonderful flavours of Wales by attending events linked with the week.

“It’s fantastic to see the Welsh wine industry growing so much and becoming an increasingly important part of both the food and drink and visitor economy. I wish everyone taking part a very successful event as our country’s exceptional wine offering is celebrated and goes from strength to strength.”

The Sugar Loaf Vineyards, Abergavenny © Hawlfraint y Goron / © Crown copyright (2023) Cymru Wales

With almost 40 vineyards now operating across the country, Wales’ credibility as an innovative producer of high-quality wine has blossomed thanks to its pioneering vineyard owners, the fantastic fruit that is grown as well as Wales’ distinctive landscape and microclimate. There are over 20 different grape varieties grown, producing exceptional red, white, rosé and sparkling wines.

Robb Merchant, owner of White Castle Vineyard, said: “The Welsh wine industry has been growing over the past 10 years, with now close to 40 vineyards. It is becoming an integral part of the Welsh economy.

“Firstly is the employment opportunities that are being created as we see established vineyards growing and new larger plantings being planned. Secondly, there is the tourism aspect, those vineyards that are open to visitors are creating some great opportunities for tourists to visit and tour, learn about the growing process and then taste and learn about the wines they produce. Many are now becoming a primary destination for visitors. The third part in this equation is the support that is being given by the trade stockists, restaurants, shops and hotels across Wales, and the rest of the UK. There is a real demand for Welsh wine across the UK.”

The Sugar Loaf Vineyards, Abergavenny © Hawlfraint y Goron / © Crown copyright (2023) Cymru Wales

Welsh wine sales, alongside English wine, increased by 31.3% to 9.3 million bottles in 2021, and the impact of the Welsh wine industry on tourism is predicted to bring in £75.9 million by 2035.

Janet Redler, Managing Director of Janet Redler Travel, added: “It’s fantastic to hear that wine production in Wales is doing so well, and Welsh Wine Week is sure to focus attention on this growing Welsh industry. With some wonderful wines on offer and first-class vineyard and cellar door experiences to enjoy, there’s never been a better time to enjoy Welsh wine.”

To read more about Welsh Wine Week visit www.welshwineweek.co.uk.

If you or your group would like to enjoy the best of Welsh wine on a tailor-made tour of Wales, or a dedicated food and drink tour, please do contact our friendly team today.