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Kiwi Sauvignon Blancs becoming the UK's 'go to' white wine

Author
Newstalk ZB,
Publish Date
Tue, 14 Oct 2025, 9:49am
(Photo / Getty)
(Photo / Getty)

Kiwi Sauvignon Blancs becoming the UK's 'go to' white wine

Author
Newstalk ZB,
Publish Date
Tue, 14 Oct 2025, 9:49am

The UK can’t seem to get enough of New Zealand wine. 

Latest data shows Sauvignon Blanc shipments hit a 10 year high – with 13.2 million bottles sent over summer. 

Exports are up 21% year on year, New Zealand now commanding around half of the $2.5 billion UK Sauvignon Blanc market, valued at NZ$1.37 billion. 

Invivo Co-founder Tim Lightbourne told Mike Hosking there’s been a shift in the UK away from heavy reds, with Sauv becoming the go to over things like Malbec, Shiraz, and Merlot. 

Plus, New Zealand wines are a premium to the category, he says, selling for about 17% more than the average bottle. 

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