UK sparkling wines have recently gained recognition at the Decanter World Wine Awards (DWWA) 2025, showcasing their quality and global prowess. According to trade body WineGB, sales of UK sparkling wines surged by 187% from 2018 to 2023, reaching 6.2 million bottles. The increased interest also resonates with high-profile fans, including members of the Royal family.
One standout achievement at the DWWA was the Sugrue South Downs, The Trouble With Dreams 2009, which won a Best in Show medal. This magnum, containing a blend of 60% Chardonnay, 25% Pinot Noir, and 15% Pinot Meunier, was praised by judges for its vibrant acidity and complexity, showcasing the potential of top UK sparkling wines.
The awards marked the inaugural inclusion of magnum categories beyond Champagne, allowing British producers to demonstrate their craft. Sugrue’s approach to winemaking emphasizes the age-worthiness of his wines, with investments enabling the creation of a dedicated winery.
In addition, the awards highlighted several other vintage English sparkling wines, with eight winning top medals. Noteworthy mentions include Digby Fine English, Rosé Brut 2018 and Bluestone, Blanc de Noirs Brut 2019, both receiving a Platinum medal for their exceptional quality.
A significant trend this year was the commendation of Blanc de Blancs wines, particularly those made from 100% Chardonnay, which continued to shine across the awards. Among them, Peter Hall’s Cuvée Geoffrey Aldred Brut 2018 was recognized as a noteworthy Gold medallist for its balanced profile and fresh character.
Overall, the DWWA 2025 results underscore the rising status of UK sparkling wines, encouraging both connoisseurs and casual drinkers to explore this expanding category.