Grape varieties suited to UK vineyards)
Choosing the right grape varieties is a key (and one of the most exciting) decisions for any vineyard in the UK. Our marginal climate means not every grape ripens reliably, so careful selection is key to producing high-quality wines.
Classic Varietals for UK Vineyards
Certain grapes are particularly well-suited to English conditions:
Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier (the 3 main Champagne varieties) ripen early, allowing harvest before cold or wet weather sets in.
Their delicate flavours make them ideal for sparkling wine, which currently accounts for around 75% of UK wine production.
These varieties also produce world-class still wines, making them a safe and versatile choice. Look no further than Burgundy to know this is true!
Disease-Resistant Options: PIWI Varieties
For vineyard owners seeking a more sustainable approach, PIWI varieties — short for Pilzwiderstandsfähig (meaning disease-resistant) — are worth considering. Popular examples include Solaris, Sauvignac, Muscaris, Sovignier Gris and Caberet Noir.
PIWIs reduce the need for fungicides.
While some critics suggest their flavour does not yet match traditional Champagne grapes, they are gaining attention for sustainable viticulture in the UK.
Long-term ageing potential is still being explored, but they offer a promising option for modern vineyards.
German Hybrids
German hybrid varieties bred for cool climates are also common in UK vineyards. The most popular is Bacchus, which has pretty much been adopted as the UK’s national grape. Other varieties include Seyval Blanc, Muller Thurgau and Silvaner.
These grapes ripen more reliably in cooler conditions.
However, many growers are now favouring noble varieties such as Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier due to their market appeal and premium wine potential.
Experimental Varieties for the Future
With a slowly warming UK climate, vineyard owners are experimenting with new grape varieties. In fact there are 99 different grape varieties now planted in England! I’m particularly excited about:
Albariño – originating from Galicia, now increasingly planted in Kent and beyond. Definitely one to watch in the UK!
Gamay – the native grape of Beaujolais producing light, fruity red wines.
Arinto - grown throughout Portugal and is garnering interest for its acid retention in warm climates amongst forward thinking UK growers.
Grenache - grown in polytunnels at B58 Winery in the New Forest and absolutely divine.
These plantings reflect a growing trend toward diversifying UK vineyards and exploring what is possible as conditions evolve. The future of English wine is increasingly exciting, with potential for new styles and premium wines.
In summary, choosing the grape variety is a very personal and emotive decision, just be aware that whatever you plant must be compatible with your vineyard macro and microclimate.