English sparkling wine producer Chapel Down reported a 19% increase in sales during the first half of 2026, driven by favorable weather conditions and expansion into the United States market. The Kent-based company recorded sales of £9.4 million for the six months ending June 30, reflecting growing consumer demand, particularly among younger drinkers choosing sparkling wine for celebratory occasions including birthdays, anniversaries, and weddings.

Despite the rise in sales, Chapel Down expects this year’s grape harvest to fall short of the previous year’s exceptional output. A prolonged period of hot weather benefited the vineyards, but a late frost in May is anticipated to reduce the crop yield to around the five-year average. Last year’s harvest was notably 15% above this average, marking a particularly strong year for the company’s vineyards.

James Pennefather, Chapel Down’s chief executive, highlighted that last year’s yield was an outlier in terms of size. He noted that while current production is returning to typical levels, the quality of grapes remains promising. The wine produced from the 2025 harvest is expected to be ready for consumption in approximately three years.

Chapel Down has steadily increased the productive area of its vineyards, currently managing around 1,000 acres (400 hectares) of vines. This expansion follows a series of recent plantings aimed at meeting rising demand as interest in English sparkling wines grows both domestically and abroad. The company’s strategic focus on younger demographics and international markets, including the United States, has contributed to its robust sales performance in the first half of this year.