Rare Grapes, New Regions and Still Wines Shake Up WineGB Awards

The 2026 WineGB Awards have revealed a maturing UK wine industry that's branching out in exciting ways. Still wines have now surpassed sparkling wines in both entries and medals for the second consecutive year, whilst producers are experimenting with 24 different grape varieties, including ones previously thought unsuitable for the British climate like Gamay and Sauvignon Blanc. The results also show a shifting regional landscape, with emerging areas like Hampshire and Dorset producing some of the competition's best wines, challenging the traditional dominance of Kent and Sussex.