Wine GB says that its 2026 awards demonstrated that there had been “a decisive shift” in trajectory for the English and Welsh wine industry.

The body said confidence, diversity and technical mastery were defining themes, with judges praising producers who were making world-class wines in multiple styles. 

Peter Richards MW, co‑chair of the judges, said: “There was a time when you felt like you could put UK wine in a neat box – no longer.

“There is now an ambition, diversity and adventurous nature to many wines that speaks of confidence in the craft.

“The 2026 Wine GB Awards confirm that English and Welsh wine is not only maturing – it is thriving, innovating and earning its place on the world stage.”

Dorset’s Langham Wine Estate was named supreme champion, and won the awards for best producer, best sparkling wine and best non‑vintage fizz for its 99-point Corallian Classic Cuvée NV.

Kings Cuvée 2017, from Hampshire’s Hattingley Valley, won the trophy for best aged or vintage cuvée.

Other sparkling wine winners came from Chapel Down, Oastbrook, Fenny Castle, Woodchester Valley and Exton Park.

Wine GB said the competition also showed “a major evolution in still winemaking”, with standout performances from Chardonnay, Bacchus, rosé and Pinot Noir wines.

The winner of best still wine was London urban winery Blackbook for its Pygmalion Chardonnay 2023, while Walgate in East Sussex won best rosé for its 2023 vintage.

Balfour, Simpsons’ and Sandridge also won still wine gongs.

The team at West Sussex’s Abingworth Vineyard (pictured celebrating) won best newcomer after the producer picked up one gold and four silver medals in its debut year.

Another West Sussex winery, Wiston Estate, was named best contract producer.