May marks one important date in the capital’s wine calendar – London Wine Fair. We left this year’s event full of inspiration from producers all over the world, leaving us feeling very glass half full when it comes to wine PR.
From bold new wine regions making waves, to planet-friendly packaging getting real attention, to English fizz beating the French at their own game, here’s what stood out.
While the classic regions still showed up in force, this year’s fair shone the spotlight on lesser known regions, ripe for breaking into the UK market.
China doubled its stand size, while Japan showcased elegant sakes and wines, and emerging regions like Serbia, Romania and Georgia showed that Eastern Europe is an area to watch for next coolest thing.
Portugal also strengthened its presence as its wine grow in popularity in the UK – with double the number of wineries on show this year. Offering expressive terroirs, indigenous grape varieties and a fresh story to tell, it’s clear why buyers and consumers alike are turning their heads to Europe’s western edge as well.
Sustainability wasn’t just a buzzword this year – it was everywhere. From AI-led viticulture to more responsible distribution models, the fair made one thing clear: eco isn’t an afterthought anymore – it’s the starting point.
Alternative packaging stole the show, too. Bag-in-box? Now chic. Cans? This summer’s must-have accessory. Recyclable PET bottles? On the rise. Whether it’s carbon footprint reduction or shelf appeal, more brands are leaning into planet-friendly formats without compromising on quality.
Add in big conversations around Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) and how the industry plans to get ahead of it, and you’ve got a future-facing fair that wasn’t just about what’s in the bottle, but how it gets there.
The “Battle of the Bubbles” blind tasting caused a proper stir this year.
With Champagne squaring up against English Sparkling, it was Nyetimber’s 1086 Prestige Cuvée 2010 from West Sussex which scored top marks.
English sparkling wine has been making quiet (and not-so-quiet) strides for the past few years, but this felt like a glass-shattering turning point. No longer a novelty, it’s now a serious contender – and something retailers, bars and wine lists should be embracing with confidence.
London Wine Fair 2025 wasn’t just about tasting great wine – it was about discovering what’s next. From alternative origins and packaging to England’s fizz flexing on the French, the show was full of energy, creativity, and a clear message: the wine world is evolving, and fast.
With a passion for all things wine and spirits (and WSET Level 3 under her belt), Jess brings her expertise to some of the UK’s best known drinks brands. And when she’s not widening her knowledge sipping on a new serve or pairing wine with food, you’ll find her getting through her Goodreads list, coffeeshop hopping, or talking at length about her cats.
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