High alcohol wines on the way out: Marks & Spencer

Beverley Blanning

Major UK supermarket Marks & Spencer is predicting a drop in consumer interest in higher-alcohol wines – and will source more wines 'at 12% rather than 14% alcohol'.

High alcohol wines have had their day. We will be trying to source more wines at 12% alcohol, rather than 14% in the future.'

The company is also looking at offering wines that are sulphite-free and without unnecessary additives, for allergy sufferers. Alcohol levels in wine have risen markedly in recent years. The increases are due to a number of factors, including improved techniques in viticulture, rising average temperatures and consumer preferences for riper, easy-drinking styles.

Finding ways to limit excessive alcohol in wines while retaining flavor
is becoming a major challenge to many wine producers.

Many of wine leaders are trying to anticipate tomorrow's problems. People want to drink responsibly.
The move come as M&S undertakes a wholesale reorganization of its business via 'Plan A', announced by CEO Stuart Rose last month. This is a 100-point plan to reduce the retailer's 'carbon footprint' and to become 'a leading retailer in ethical trading.