New Zealand white wine has proven resilient in the UK market, showing significant growth in the final weeks of 2024. According to the latest data, New Zealand led the Still White Wine category in the four-week period leading up to December 28, 2024, with a 7.3% increase in value and a 9.7% rise in volume compared to the same period last year.
The data, compiled by Nielsen IQ, reveals that New Zealand’s white wines continue to command a premium price, with an average bottle price of £8.09, well above the UK market average of £6.69. For the year, the category saw a 9.2% growth in value and a 9.8% increase in volume.
Chris Stroud, Market Manager for New Zealand Winegrowers in the UK and Europe, expressed satisfaction with the strong performance, particularly during the festive season. “Consumers tend to treat themselves and upgrade their purchases over Christmas, so it’s encouraging to see New Zealand wines as a top choice,” he said.
Sauvignon Blanc remains the driving force behind this success, making up half of the UK’s Sauvignon Blanc sales. However, Stroud also highlighted the increasing popularity of other New Zealand white varieties, such as Pinot Gris, suggesting opportunities for retailers to further elevate the category’s appeal.
The success is not limited to white wines. New Zealand red wines also performed well, with the average price per bottle exceeding £10.50, further demonstrating that UK consumers are willing to pay a premium for the quality associated with New Zealand wines.
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