Vineyards in Wales are spread across the country, though Monmouthshire and Carmarthenshire lead in plantings. The modern industry has an earlier landmark: the United Kingdom's first commercial vineyard was planted near Castell Coch outside Cardiff in 1875. It has gone, but Welsh wine production has expanded since then.
The cool climate has long suited Solaris and Seyval Blanc, which can make bright, aromatic wines with fresh acidity. Chardonnay, Pinot Meunier and Pinot Noir are also grown, while Welsh reds often use Pinot Noir Précoce, Regent and Rondo. Producers make still wines and traditional-method sparkling wine, as well as pet-nat, col fondo, orange wine and Port-like fortified wine. Low-intervention wines are a visible part of the scene, and growers are trialling later-ripening varieties as the climate warms.
"Welsh" is a protected wine name with PDO status. "Welsh Wine" is reserved for qualifying vintages under Welsh wine rules.
Inside the region
1 named area
Each guide keeps its place within Wales clear, with a direct route back to the map.