Laithwaites declares Reading UK's Chardonnay capital

The Grape Britain campaign by the Theale-based wine merchant revealed Reading as the leading town for Chardonnay enthusiasts.

The analysis, based on Laithwaites' wine sales data, highlighted the diverse wine tastes across the UK's largest towns and cities, each region showing a particular preference for a certain grape.

British signature wines (Image: Laithwaites)

Reading emerged as the town with the highest consumption per head of Chardonnay, reflecting the town's unique mix of tradition and modernity.

Greg Roberts, a wine educator at Laithwaites, said: "Reading’s preference for Chardonnay is a perfect reflection of the town’s adaptable yet timeless vibe.

"This data not only reveals what people love to drink but also tells a story about each town or city’s individual personality."

UK's top 10 grapes (Image: Laithwaites)

Reading's Chardonnay preference is one part of a larger picture of diverse wine culture in the UK.

While Aberdeen prefers classic Sauvignon Blanc and Newport is inclined towards zesty Colombard, Reading's dedication to this classic white wine stands out.

Chardonnay is celebrated worldwide for its versatility, with styles varying from crisp and citrusy to rich and oaky.

Regions like Burgundy in France are famed for producing elegant and mineral-driven Chardonnays, while California and Australia are known for their bolder, fruit-forward expressions.

Classic favourites like Merlot in Canterbury and Chardonnay in Reading remain popular, but the data also shows an increasing interest in niche varieties.

Albariño is gaining popularity in Manchester, while Sangiovese is becoming a favourite in Newcastle.

This shift indicates a growing adventurous spirit among British wine lovers, keen to try something new as the country moves beyond the pandemic.

Mr Roberts said: "The data highlights how wine culture is changing across Britain, with each town and city embracing flavours that truly reflect its character.

Brits are becoming more adventurous with their types of wines (Image: Laithwaites)

"It’s exciting to see how local tastes shape what people drink.

"There’s a beautiful connection between where you live and what you enjoy in a glass.

"We hope these findings inspire wine lovers everywhere to explore new varieties that connect them to their hometown."

Laithwaites encourages everyone to explore their town or city's wine culture and discover the bottles that resonate with them.

Whether you prefer bold reds, crisp whites, or sparkling delights, there's a unique wine waiting to be uncorked that captures its spirit.

The Grape Britain campaign's findings not only spotlight the UK's varied wine tastes but also reflect the evolving wine culture in the country.