The 2025 Decanter World Wine Awards (DWWA) marked a defining moment for vintage sparkling wines from the United Kingdom, as the country's producers claimed prestigious accolades in the world’s largest and most respected wine competition.
For the first time, sparkling wines outside Champagne were eligible in the magnum category, setting the stage for a historic performance by Sugrue South Downs, alongside a strong showing from both English and Welsh estates.
The standout of the event was Sugrue South Downs’ The Trouble With Dreams 2009 in magnum, which was awarded one of only 50 “Best in Show” medals from thousands of global entries. Made from Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier sourced from Jenkyn Place vineyard in Hampshire, the wine aged 12 years on lees and two years under cork, resulting in a profile judges praised as “youthful and energetic” with deep complexity and finesse. Only 600 magnums were produced, and while they are now sold out, anticipation builds for the upcoming 1,000 magnums of the 2020 vintage, expected in September 2025.
This success comes at a time of rapid growth for UK sparkling wines. According to WineGB, sales between 2018 and 2023 surged 187%, reaching 6.2 million bottles, a testament to both rising quality and global demand.
The DWWA 2025 results also highlighted eight additional vintage English sparkling wines made from traditional Champagne grapes that earned top medals. Two received Platinum awards:
- Digby Fine English Rosé Brut 2018 – Celebrated for vibrant acidity and expressive red fruit notes.
- Bluestone Blanc de Noirs Brut 2019 – Noted for its apricot and peach aromas with a precise, focused palate.
Six other wines earned Gold medals, each showcasing the UK’s growing mastery of traditional method sparkling winemaking:
- Hoffman & Rathbone Blanc de Noirs Brut 2015 – Aged nine years on lees, highlighting Pinot Meunier’s aging potential.
- Squerryes North Downs Brut 2015 (Magnum) – With eight years on lees, this wine comes from a family-owned estate dating back over 300 years.
- Breaky Bottom Cuvée Geoffrey Aldred Brut 2018 – The first 100% Chardonnay cuvée by winemaker Peter Hall since founding the East Sussex estate in 1974.
- Oxney Organic Estate Blanc de Blancs Extra Brut 2019 – A leading organic producer.
- Ashling Park Estate Blanc de Blancs Brut 2014 – Known for its refined character and longevity.
- Gusbourne Commanders Vineyard Blanc de Blancs Brut 2019 – From one of Kent’s most acclaimed vineyards.
Beyond the top accolades, several producers from across the UK, including Pembrokeshire in Wales, earned Silver and Bronze medals, showing that excellence is no longer limited to southeastern England.
This year’s competition not only spotlighted quality but also marked a shift in global perception. With more UK wineries investing in traditional methods, extended lees aging, and magnum production, the category is evolving with intent and precision. The success at DWWA 2025 signals a new chapter in British wine history—one defined by ambition, terroir, and international recognition.
Source: Vinetur