The amount of English land used for wine-growing is set to rise by up to 50% by the end of this decade.
The English Wine Producers Association says the area of land used for viticulture will increase by 1,000 acres (404.7ha) by 2010, accelerating existing 10% growth since 2000. There are now more than 350 vineyards in England, covering 2,300 acres (930.7ha).
Warmer weather due to global warming and the increasing popularity of sparkling wines have helped contribute to the boom in British product. The rapid growth of the industry means foreign winemakers from France and California are now looking to England for investment opportunities.
,i.The Sunday Telegraph 28/5/06 page 5, page 20 (Editorial)
