Rosé wine sales increasing in UK

It is not only France where the popularity of rosé wine is booming, British drinkers are also turning to the pink drink in increasing numbers.

The wine has become a staple fixture of barbecues, summer parties and lunch dates.

"We have seen the biggest ever rise in rosé sales over the last three years," said Jeremy Beadles, chief executive of the Wine and Spirit Trade Association.

He said: "It has become a very popular drink. There used to be a limited range of rosé wines - mainly from southern France - but now there are lots of options in the market, particularly those coming over from California.

"People are drinking it because it is something different, it's accessible, light, fruity - and a bit lower on the alcohol side too.

"That makes for a more appealing lunchtime drink, a nice alternative to a glass of red. "More venues are stocking rosé wines too. It used to be hard to find them on menus but most pubs are stocking two or three now.

"Younger people, between 18 and 25 years, are the biggest customers. I think historically it has always been more of a female's drink, but there has been a growth across all types of customers.

"In the summer there are barbecues, outside parties and social events, when the sun is shining it is a very popular option."

Mr Beadles said companies such as Blossom Hill and Echo Falls had invested lots of money in establishing rosé wines as long-term brands.

He added: "Historically rosé has always been a summer drink, and that is certainly when sales peak, but there is now a customer base which is buying it throughout the year.

"That is a definite change that has been noticed in the past few years or so."