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In the ever-evolving world of beverages, a new trend is making a splash – the rise of no/low alcohol wines trend, fondly known as “NoLo” wines. This shift is not just a passing fad but a significant movement reshaping the global wine industry. It’s driven by consumers’ increasing preference for moderation and healthier lifestyle choices. Let’s uncork this trend and explore its various facets.
Understanding the NoLo Trend
The NoLo category, encompassing drinks with low or no alcohol content, has seen a remarkable growth spurt in recent years. In 2021 alone, the NoLo drinks market grew by over 6% in volume across 10 key global markets, including Australia, Brazil, Canada, France, Germany, Japan, South Africa, Spain, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The market value shot up to almost US$10 billion in 2021, up from US$7.8 billion in 2018. Looking ahead, it’s predicted that low/no alcohol consumption will rise by a third by 2026, indicating a bright future for this sector.
The Driving Factors of the NoLo Trend
The rise of the NoLo wine trend can be attributed to several key driving factors. Many consumers are becoming more health-conscious and are looking for lower-alcohol alternatives to traditional alcoholic beverages. This is particularly true in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, which has heightened concerns around health. The NoLo trend is becoming more popular among new generations of drinkers. Younger people are leading the NoLo charge, keen to avoid the ill-effects of alcohol. NoLo drinks are becoming more socially acceptable. This is making it easier for people to choose these beverages in social situations without feeling out of place. The range of NoLo flavors and styles is appealing to consumers. The industry has made significant strides in improving the taste of NoLo wines, making them a more attractive option for consumers. NoLo beverages are more widely available than ever before. This increased accessibility is helping to drive the trend. The NoLo trend spans ‘no and low’ sulphites, and pesticides, and aims for a reduced carbon footprint, resonating with environmentally conscious consumers seeking sustainable and health-conscious choices.
The Global Growth of NoLo Wine
The NoLo trend in the wine sector is making its mark globally. Germany leads the pack, dominating the No/Low Alcohol market by volume, which is more than three times that of the next-largest no/low market, Spain. The United States is not far behind, with its no/low alcohol segment forecasted to grow by a staggering +28% volume CAGR from 2021-2025. Even the United Kingdom is catching up, with its no/low alcohol segment forecasted to grow by +6% volume CAGR from 2021-2025.
Leading Manufacturers in NoLo Wine
Several trailblazing manufacturers are leading the charge in the research and production of NoLo wine globally. These include:
| Manufacturer | Country |
|---|---|
| Constellation Brands | United States |
| Kolonne Null | Germany |
| Miller Family Wine Co. | United States |
| Veuve du Vernay | France |
| Barton & Guestier | France |
| Stella Rosa | Italy |
| Giesen | New Zealand |
| Mocktails | United States |
| ZeroZilchZip | United Kingdom |
| Bemuse Drinks | United Kingdom |
These pioneers are setting new standards in the NoLo wine industry, catering to the growing consumer interest in healthier and more mindful drinking options.
The Art of Making NoLo Wines
The winemaking process for NoLo wines is a fascinating blend of tradition and innovation. It begins with the traditional winemaking process, followed by the crucial step of alcohol removal. The real challenge lies in removing the alcohol while still retaining the flavor and other qualities of the wine, a delicate balance that requires precision and expertise. This can be achieved through two primary methods: Vacuum Distillation and Reverse Osmosis.
Vacuum Distillation: This method is ideal for non-alcoholic products as it can remove alcohol to <0.5% ABV. The wine is gently heated; the differences in the boiling point then lead to the separation of alcohol and water.
Reverse Osmosis: This is a membrane technique where wine is passed through a filter with pores so small that only alcohol and water (and a few volatile acids) can pass through. The alcohol is then distilled out of the alcohol-water mix using conventional distillation methods, and the remaining water and volatile acids are added back into the wine.
Leading Research Institutions
Several universities and research institutions around the world are leading the way in NoLo wine research. The University of Adelaide, Australia, and Wine Intelligence, Global, are just a few of the institutions pioneering this field. Their research is helping local vineyards and wineries to improve the quality of their NoLo wines and develop new offerings.
In conclusion, the rise of NoLo wine is a testament to the evolving tastes and preferences of consumers. As we raise our glasses to toast to healthier choices, it’s clear that the NoLo trend is here to stay. So, whether you’re a business owner looking to tap into this growing market, a professor researching this trend, or a layman simply enjoying a great-tasting beverage, remember, you’re part of a global revolution.
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