Regulatory reform in the wine industry

Phased reforms

The reform process has unfolded in phases, with the first being the Wine (Revocation and Consequential Provision) Regulations 2023, which came into effect in January 2024.

These regulations introduced simplified labelling rules, relaxed packaging standards for sparkling wines and enhanced bottle recycling. The regulations also lifted restrictions on hybrid grape varieties to encourage innovation.

The second phase of reform was introduced in July 2024 by the Wine (Amendment)(England) Regulations 2024, which set out updates to the approved winemaking practices, such as, where the alcoholic strength may be increased, authorised wine-making practices and restrictions applicable to the production and conservation of grapevine products.

It also sets out new rules restricting the use of the term ‘ice wine’.

A consultative approach to future reforms

The third phase of reforms has been shaped by a public consultation that ended in May 2024.

The consultation sought opinions on various issues such as carbonisation of imported bulk wine, sweetening and other adaptation of imported wine, wine production from imported grapes, and changes to the labelling of ‘British Wine’.

It also addressed the regulation of no and low alcohol wine and proposed amendments to the minimum alcohol content of wine. The change in Government in the UK has delayed the implementation of these further reforms.

We’ll keep you updated of developments and report in a future newsletter as and when further regulatory reform is announced.

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