English Wine Week is officially underway, and the energy across the country is already electric.
On Monday 22 June, our CEO Nicola took to the road representing three very different but equally vital parts of WineGB’s work.
The day showcased exactly what makes our sector so dynamic: diversity, innovation, and a shared commitment to raising the profile of English wine.
Essex: Still Wines, Strong Voices
Nicola began the day in Essex alongside WineGB Chair Charlie Holland, meeting with local producers to hear their evolving still wine story.
Essex continues to build a compelling identity in still wine, with producers demonstrating both confidence and quality. The region has something to say and the wines to back it up. Essex producers are carving out a distinctive place in the national conversation, and we’re excited to support their next steps.
Westminster & Diageo: Flying the Flag for English Wine
From vineyards to boardrooms, Nicola then headed to Diageo’s London offices for the annual Agri Attaché Conclave – a week-long gathering of diplomats, trade specialists, and UK food and drink exporters.
New Agri Minister Stephen Morgan MP addressed the room and, within seconds, referenced English Wine Week, prompting a few delighted “whoops” from attendees. Nicola followed up with a conversation about WineGB’s three core asks for government and extended an invitation for the Minister to visit a vineyard to continue the discussion in a more grounded setting.
This kind of engagement is essential. It ensures that English and Welsh wine remains firmly on the radar of policymakers and international partners.
East London: Brit Nat 2026
The day wrapped up with a very different flavour: the Brit Nat 2026 showcase at Numbers in East London.
A mix of WineGB members poured everything from pét-nats and col fondos to biodynamic and organic expressions. With Ancre Hill in attendance, we were able to celebrate Welsh wine alongside English – a reminder that our industry is proudly supporting all that is home-grown,
The East London crowd brought its trademark energy, and the room buzzed with curiosity, creativity, and a genuine appetite for experimentation. If you’re curious about the Brit Nat movement, it’s one of the most exciting corners of our category.
A Sector Defined by Diversity and Innovation
From still wine pioneers to natural wine trailblazers, from government engagement to grassroots storytelling, this day captured the breadth of what makes our industry special.
The diversity of our producers, in style, region, and philosophy, is not just something to celebrate. It’s a cornerstone of our long‑term success. And this week, we’re raising a glass to every part of it.