In our latest blog, Marta López, Foreign Trade Assistant at the Spanish Chamber of Commerce in the United Kingdom, shares a first-hand perspective on the journey of Spanish wine into the UK market. From her experience across La Mancha, the hospitality sector, and the Chamber’s Foreign Trade Department, she reflects on both the cultural roots and the commercial realities behind exporting wine to one of the world’s most competitive markets.
From La Mancha to the UK: Experiencing Spanish Wine Abroad
I grew up in La Mancha, a region where vineyards shape the landscape, the local economy, and the cultural identity. Wine was always present in my surroundings, not only as a product but as a symbol of tradition and international outlook. Years later, while working in the hospitality sector in Mallorca and interacting directly with an international clientele, I observed the strong interest Spanish wine generates among consumers from different countries, who seek quality, designation of origin, and authenticity.
It was during my time in the Foreign Trade and Communications Department at the Spanish Chamber of Commerce in the United Kingdom that I truly understood what lies behind every bottle that crosses a border. Beyond the product itself, there is a framework of regulations, commercial strategy, and regulatory adaptation that shapes the international journey of Spanish wine.
Navigating the Post-Brexit UK Wine Market
Exporting wine to the United Kingdom today involves far more than identifying an importer or positioning a brand in the right channel. Since the UK’s departure from the European Union, the regulatory framework has undergone significant changes, requiring Spanish wineries to adapt to new procedures and formal requirements. Obtaining an EORI number, ensuring correct tariff classification, managing customs declarations, complying with labelling rules, and applying the excise duty system are all part of a process that demands documentary accuracy and strategic planning.
My legal background has enabled me to better understand this regulatory dimension of international trade, particularly in an environment where any technical error can result in border delays, additional costs, or logistical complications. In this context, wine reflects how tradition, regulation, and commercial strategy must be coordinated to ensure smooth and efficient access to the British market.
The Spanish Chamber’s Role
The Chamber plays a crucial role in supporting Spanish wineries entering or strengthening their presence in the UK. Each project begins with an analysis of a company’s profile, positioning, and commercial objectives. From there, real market opportunities are assessed, potential importers or distributors are identified, and a strategic database is developed to guide structured outreach and follow-up.
Beyond the search for clients or distributors, many Spanish companies turn to the Chamber to resolve queries related to export procedures, required documentation, or current regulatory requirements. This technical support, combining regulatory knowledge with practical market experience, is particularly valuable in the post-Brexit context, characterised by increased administrative complexity.
Insights from Trade Fairs and Tastings
Attending wine tastings and trade fairs has been another enriching aspect of my experience. These events are not only about presenting products but also about observing the market, identifying trends, and building professional connections. They provide first-hand insight into how the British market operates, marked by a strong retail presence and a growing demand for higher-quality, value-added wines, even within a context of more moderate overall consumption.
Such events also help identify potential collaborations and reinforce the Chamber’s role as a bridge between Spanish producers and key players in the UK market.
Trends in UK Alcohol Consumption
Understanding the British wine market requires a broader view of alcohol consumption in the UK. In recent years, there has been a shift towards more moderate drinking, influenced by economic factors, changing social habits, and greater health awareness. Low- and no-alcohol beverages have gained prominence, along with products distinguished by sustainability, traceability, or regional identity.
In a competitive and evolving market, Spanish wineries seeking to position themselves in the UK need a clear value proposition and a carefully planned market entry strategy.
Tradition, Strategy and Market Success
Ultimately, the journey of Spanish wine to the UK reflects the complexity of contemporary international trade. Behind every transaction lie strategic decisions, regulatory compliance, and a network of commercial relationships that must be carefully coordinated. The Spanish Chamber of Commerce in the United Kingdom acts as both a technical and business bridge between the two markets, helping interpret regulations and supporting companies in their international expansion.
Between vineyards and customs, wine demonstrates how tradition, adaptation, and strategy must advance together to ensure a solid and sustainable presence in the UK. Being part of this process within the Foreign Trade Department has also been a valuable professional learning experience in a demanding and constantly evolving bilateral environment.
Blog post written by Marta López, Foreign Trade Assistant at the Spanish Chamber of Commerce in the UK.
