A trend is something that establishes itself over time and continues for a while. Therefore, it is not surprising that the trends I will mention are not necessarily new. I am taking an Australian perspective here.
The most significant move in red wine is a trend towards fresher, lighter, and more elegant wines. Pinot Noir and Grenache are on the rise, both with quality value offerings as well now. The response of the major South Australian regions is interesting. Many wineries continue with full-bodied Shiraz. But in the Barossa, there are new wineries which make lighter style Shiraz, and grapes from the cooler Eden Valley are highly sought after. In McLaren Vale, many experiment with Mediterranean varieties, others head for the hills. Cool climate Shiraz across Australia has not taken off in the way one might have expected, given the above trends.
The situation with white wine is less clear. Chardonnay continues to dominate, with ever rising quality across all regions. Sauvignon Blanc and blends remain popular. A downward trend may occur with Pinot Gris or Pinot Grigio, as too many offerings have been disappointing. Other varieties remain niche.
In Champagne, a balance between the large houses and grower champagne seems to have been established. Prosecco is gaining in certain segments of the market, partly replacing light white wine.
The topic of alcohol requires a mention. Lower alcohol wines, such as most Riesling and Semillon, are not really low alcohol at twice the level of beer. There is clearly growth in zero alcohol wine, but why would you drink it?
Two more comments. By my observation, cocktails are taking share from wine, certainly among younger people. And we can expect environmental considerations to become more significant: bottles are getting replaced, and we will see soft packages with quality wine emerging.
And then there is natural wine. Is it a trend? Maybe not quite yet.
What did I miss?
1 comment:
Seltzer and low/no alcohol options taking share as other alternatives.
Natural wine styles popping up more and more, some with thin marketing on health side "no additives" etc. Big out of SA, less so other regions but growing in fairness. Some are charming, plenty lack balance imo and go too far. Pet nats another growing category it feels like (rarely justify price point imo though)
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