After the boom in low- and no-alcohol wines, the drinks market is preparing to welcome a new trend: medium-alcohol wines. According to Nielsen, demand in the UK for these wines, with an alcohol content between 5% and 9%, has grown by 100% in the last year.
Tesco, one of the UK's leading supermarkets, has introduced five mid-strength wine labels following the success of its no- and low-alcohol options. Consumer response has been so positive that the company is considering expanding its offering.
Steve Garwood, buyer at Tesco, points out that alcohol moderation does not necessarily mean abstinence, but gives consumers more control over their consumption. The growing interest in health and wellbeing has helped this emerging category to take hold.
According to the report The Mid Strength Opportunity, 50% of consumers would prefer two glasses of medium-strength wine instead of one stronger one. Furthermore, 13% have already adopted this choice for the entire duration of social occasions.
Julian Dyer of McGuigan Wines highlights how consumers are looking for lighter drinking experiences, without sacrificing taste or quality. Mid-strength wines respond perfectly to this need, offering a balanced alternative for those who want to enjoy convivial moments with greater awareness.
