After one of the most challenging years on record in 2024, the UK wine industry has welcomed 2025 with a strong sense of optimism. Following months of unpredictable weather and reduced yields in the previous season, growers across the country have applied lessons learned and entered this year better prepared.
At last week’s National Fruit Show and in the lead-up to the Vineyard & Winery Show, which is on 19th November, one theme has stood out in every conversation: resilience. Across the industry, vineyards have leveraged the experiences of 2024’s relentless wet season to enhance canopy management, disease control, and sustainability. Working even harder for a stronger year in 2025.
Many have shared that while they cannot control the weather, they can control how they respond to it. Some have invested in data-driven systems, while others have strengthened local labour strategies and improved operational efficiency. Ongoing research continues to provide valuable insight into how the right rootstocks, cover crops and vineyard management practices can make the sector more climate resilient. This year, we’ve seen trials to increase carbon and biodiversity in UK vineyards, specifically in Kent, by introducing cutting-edge technology to monitor such impact. Alongside this, the introduction of companion plants, between vines as a pest deterrent, whilst also using acoustic surveying to capture the number of insects present. This is just one of many examples showing the adaptability of UK Viticulture and its resilience to combat struggles from previous years.
With the 2025 harvest now complete, there is a strong sense of achievement and optimism. While challenges remain, the industry has shown it can adapt and thrive, and that mindset will define this new chapter for UK viticulture.
As a recruiter specialising in the horticulture sector, I spend much of my time speaking with Viticulture clients, learning about their challenges, approaches and everything in between.
As mentioned, I will be at the Vineyard & Winery Show on 19th November. It would be great to meet as many of you in person, so if you’re also attending and want to discuss how your business can adapt or scale with the right people in place, I’d love to connect over a coffee.
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