California-based E&J Gallo has revealed its dominance in the UK’s premium US wine sector, producing nearly three-quarters of American wines priced at £7 and above sold in UK off-trade retail. Drawing on data from Nielsen, the company highlighted the rapid rise of its premium wine portfolio over the past six years, citing consistently strong growth across its leading brands.

Among Gallo’s top-performing labels in the UK are Dark Horse, Apothic, and Carnivor—brands that now account for three in every five bottles of premium US wine sold through UK retailers. Together, the trio has grown at more than seven times the rate of the overall premium still wine category, which itself has increased by 171% since January 2015.

The figures demonstrate how E&J Gallo has firmly established itself as the driving force behind American wine at the higher end of the market in the UK.

Dark Horse leads in Chardonnay and Cabernet

One of Gallo’s standout performers, Dark Horse, posted a 51% increase in volume sales in the UK last year. The brand now produces the UK’s best-selling California Cabernet Sauvignon priced above £7. It’s also making waves with its Chardonnay, which has become the number one growth contributor in the £7+ Chardonnay category. This varietal has been instrumental in expanding the reach of the Dark Horse brand and solidifying its appeal to UK consumers seeking bold, affordable wines with a premium feel.

Retailing at £8.50, Dark Horse wines are widely available and continue to win over new drinkers with their accessible yet elevated profile.

Apothic drives premium red wine sales

Launched in the UK in 2015, Apothic has become the country’s best-selling premium red wine from the US. In the 12 months leading to August 2020, the brand saw 23% year-on-year growth, supported by the successful UK debut of its Cabernet Sauvignon, which has brought in significant new revenue for the label.

Known for its bold and smooth flavour profiles, Apothic appeals to a broad demographic of wine drinkers, especially those exploring the £9–10 price bracket. At £9.50 per bottle, Apothic’s growing range continues to position itself as an accessible yet indulgent choice for red wine lovers.

Carnivor’s Zinfandel takes the top spot

Another key brand under E&J Gallo’s premium umbrella is Carnivor, which now claims the best-selling Zinfandel in the UK market. The label experienced a 47% increase in revenue last year, helped by its strategic focus on bold, food-friendly red wines.

To enhance consumer engagement, Carnivor recently teamed up with Great British Chefs to launch a campaign highlighting food and wine pairings—underscoring the brand’s aim to position itself not just as a wine, but as part of an elevated dining experience.

Priced at £9.50, Carnivor wines continue to gain traction among UK consumers looking for full-bodied reds that complement meaty dishes and hearty meals.

US premium wine sees strong growth trajectory

E&J Gallo’s success with its premium labels reflects broader changes in UK wine-buying habits, where consumers are increasingly willing to spend more for quality and consistency. The company's strategy of offering bold, easy-to-enjoy wines at accessible price points has clearly paid off, with its brands not only leading in individual varietal categories but also driving overall growth in the premium US wine segment.

With demand for Californian wine continuing to rise in the UK, Gallo’s grip on the market shows no signs of loosening. Its commitment to brand building, product innovation, and strategic partnerships has made it the go-to supplier for American wines priced above £7—effectively shaping how UK consumers perceive and purchase premium wines from the US.