Wine growing is not new to England. The Romans introduced grapevines and cultivation continued to thrive in the Middle Ages. After the 16th century, the number of vineyards declined and very little wine was made in England until after the Second World War. Competition from elsewhere in Europe has made it difficult for English winemakers to compete at the bottom end of the market. However, there are now some quality English wines available to the discerning buyer.

England is beginning to produce some very attractive sparkling wines. Among the grapes grown are Bacchus, Faberrebe, Kerner, Madeleine Angevine, Muller Thurgau, Pinot, Reichensteiner,Rondo and Seyvals.
A distinction has to be made between English wine and British wine made from imported grapes.

Wine growing areas are mainly in the south of England, where the climate tends to be milder. Most English vineyards are comparatively small – no more than 100 acres of vines.

Some of the better known English wine producers are Battle Wine Estate, Bearstead, BookersVineyard, Camel Valley, Dunkery Vineyard, Nyetimber, Three Choirs Vineyard, Wooldings Vineyard and Yealstone Vineyard