WineGB has launched its first category-wide campaign to ‘Create New Traditions’ with the refresh of the annual English Wine Week. It encourages wine lovers to Create New Traditions and make the switch to drink English wine.  

Running from 21 to 29 June, the week-long celebration is packed with special events and promotions designed to increase sales of English wine. It follows on from Welsh Wine Week, running from 30 May to 8 June. A full calendar is available on the WineGB website, as well as an online directory. to find local vineyards. For the first time, WineGB will run two competitions for the trade and consumers.   

Create New Traditions 

The ‘Create New Traditions’ tagline and new English Wine Week logo have been developed as part of a wider WineGB brand refresh by design and branding agency Barlow & Co. Create New Traditions is both a reference to Britain’s long wine history, first as a wine importer and now as a producer, and also a call to action to encourage consumers to find a place for English wine.  

After taking almost 2,000 years to start producing it, it’s time to make English wine a part of our culture. This can be done by visiting a vineyard as part of a day out, celebrating a special occasion with a local wine, or pairing English fizz and fish & chips. Let’s make the switch: Create New Traditions – Drink English Wine. 

Competitions  

The trade competition centres on finding 10 English Wine Ambassadors from among the on- and off-trade. The 10 successful candidates will each secure an invitation to this year’s WineGB Trade and Press Tasting on 8 September and a bottle of English sparkling in a presentation box. Those based 60 miles or more from London will receive £50 towards travel costs. The 10 English Wine Ambassadors will also be entered into a draw to win a spot on a trade and press trip taking place in September. Those interested can apply here. Entries close on 29 June.  

The consumer competition, run in conjunction with The PIG Hotels, offers the chance to win the ultimate English wine weekend for two. The prize comprises a two-night stay at The PIG in the South Downs complete with a wine pairing experience and a hamper of English wines to enjoy at home. The stay will also include a behind-the-scenes vineyard or winery tour at a nearby estate.  

Nicola Bates, CEO of WineGB, comments: “England has rightfully earned its reputation as a producer of world-class wines. This year’s English Wine Week is all about embracing our domestic wine industry and making the switch to drink English. For the first time, we are also running two competitions to raise awareness of the category and reward those members of the trade that go above and beyond to champion our sector. Join us as we Create New Traditions and Drink English Wine.” 

Ends. 

For more information, please contact Phoebe French (phoebe@winegb.co.uk / 07591588328). 

Notes to editors:  

A selection of imagery to accompany this press release is available to download here.  

Trade competition: Become an English Wine Ambassador 

This competition is open to members of the on- and off-trade. Entrants must complete this form by 29 June to be in with a chance of selection.  

Consumer competition: Win the ultimate English wine weekend 

Entrants must be 18 or over and a UK resident. To enter and for the full terms and conditions, please click here.   

WineGB  

Wines of Great Britain (WineGB) is the national association for the English and Welsh wine industry. It represents, leads, and supports the sustainable growth of the Great British wine sector. With over 500 members, it works to cultivate success across the industry. Its work supports its three key areas of activity: to ensure strong production and a skilled workforce, to increase sales and safeguard quality, and to enhance the reputation of English and Welsh wine.