The UK remains Champagne’s number one market, for the 17^th year in a row. Amounting to 32.4m bottles, the UK is 6.1% down in volume but 0.5% up in value.

Françoise Peretti who heads up the Champagne Bureau in the UK, said: “Champagne customers may be drinking less but they’re spending more.

“We are seeing a new market emerging, as discerning consumers come and settle in London from developing Champagne markets such as China, India and Russia. This is where they choose to come to explore the best of Champagne,” said Peretti

She pointed out that the value increase is due to restaurants, hotels, elite bars and clubs that account for 30% of UK sales.

“London truly is leading the way as the place to come and explore the best of Champagne’s diversity,” said Peretti.