Wine Industry Trends for 2023
It’s a new year in wine! For many who study wine or work in wine, that means taking a look at what regions, styles, and overall trends are starting to hit the spotlight! A lot of trends for this year have been on the rise in previous years and are now becoming more ‘normal place’.
Without much ado here’s a lineup of what’s been on the rise in the wine industry and what I think will continue to grow in 2023! I put this out on social media last week and got a lot of great additions!
1. A continued rise in holistic winemaking
Natural, sustainable, low intervention, etc. There are a lot of ways to view these buzzwords, but overall there’s a bigger demand for wine made with the best intentions toward the environment and people.
I predict a lot more transparency in wine as well! (Wine ‘Nutrition Facts’ and ingredient labeling is a huge topic of discussion currently)
2. Bubbles as 'everyday' drinking
More Champagne on random Tuesdays! Let’s not just let the good stuff sit. Celebrate today!
Along with this, I’m seeing a rise in premium bubbles outside of Champagne. Cava, Sekt, Franciacorta, English sparkling…
3. Lighter and brighter reds
“Chillable”
“Crushable”
Whatever you will. The mid-low alcohol, less muscular, less oaky, more juicy vibe is going strong.
I’m seeing a lot of this in Gamay, Corvina, + Pinot Noir currently.
4. Casual wine dinners
What used to be an experience for just Michelin star + expensive restaurants is becoming an option at more casual eateries. Tasting menus in all forms are popping up all over.
5. Alternative packaging
Cans, boxes, various closures…
Preferences aside, we’re moving on from big bulky bottles solely indicating quality!
6. Wine-inspired beverages
Wine cocktails, prepackaged wine-inspired beverages, and more in the N/A wine category!
7. A surge in more 'obscure' regions and varieties
People are open to a lot more these days!
I’m seeing a lot more from Switzerland, Portugal, and Greece. …and certainly more than Malbec from Argentina.
“Ancient World wines” (those from countries where knowledge and wine production preceded that of the Old World) are coming in hot. Georgia, Turkey, Armenia, Israel, and Lebanon.
8. Value driven brands
It doesn’t matter how much money you’ll drop on wine, good quality value-priced bottles are what the majority are looking for these days. Something to feel good about opening on a casual weeknight or with guests.
Many established and more costly producers have started marketing a more affordable brand or ‘secondary label’.
9. Less prestige + more inclusion!
The last few years have shifted how we talk about wine, opportunities for learning about wine, and who has a voice in wine.
All things that will continue to grow as we push for them!
What’s your take on these?
What are you most excited about?
What would you add?
For me, the chillable reds, casual tasting menus, and new spotlight regions really have my attention!
It’s going to be a really cool year in wine, and I’m certainly excited to be along for the ride!
A Certified Sommelier and Certified Specialist of Wine with a passion for everything wine + beverage!