There is a growing market for lower-alcohol wines, although sometimes I wonder if they are more talked about than consumed. Low alcohol can mean anything from 1 per cent to 11 per cent. The definition of low alcohol in the UK is less than 1.2 per cent. These are essentially alcohol-free wines. Elsewhere, low alcohol can mean anything up to 11 per cent or more. The Wine Spectator magazine argues that 12 per cent or anything less is low in alcohol.
As temperatures rise worldwide, it is becoming increasingly difficult to keep alcohol levels down. Producers must either harvest earlier or use various technologies to remove some or all the alcohol. There is a balance to be struck; remove too much alcohol and it may be a pleasant drink, but it won’t taste like wine. It is possible to find wines at 8-12.5 per cent that are naturally low in alcohol either because the grapes have been picked early, or because the vines are grown in cooler climates.
White and sparkling wines are generally lower in alcohol than red. You are more likely to find lower alcohol wines in cooler regions such as the Loire valley, Germany, Austria, northern Italy, and of course, Ireland!
Traces is a range of lower-alcohol, lower-calorie wines launched last year. The sauvignon has 78 calories per 125ml.
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Domaine la Combette is one of the more innovative estates in the Languedoc, growing hybrid varieties, and producing low-alcohol, alcohol-free and standard wines. The rosé below and its sauvignon are best-sellers in many of our independent retail shops.
Made from a blend of three hybrid varieties – Artaban (red), Floréal (white), and Vidoc (red) – the 003 Château Grand Chemin could be an example of how wine will taste in the future.
One of my favourite aperitifs is a Riesling Kabinett from the Mosel. Delicate, aromatic and light in alcohol, they have a barely perceptible sweetness balanced by a fine acidity.
Traces Sauvignon Blanc 2024, Pays d’Oc
11%, €15 (less when on promotion)
Light and refreshing with zesty pear fruits.
From Tesco, Circle K, Drinkwellireland.com
Domaine La Colombette Grenache Rosé 2024, Languedoc
11%, €13-15
Light and refreshing with juicy strawberry fruits and a nicely rounded finish. Perfect sipping wine.
Widely available from independents
003 Domaine Grand-Chemin 2024 Cévennes, Languedoc
11.5%, €23
Very attractive light refreshing wine with red cherries, rhubarb and a nice earthiness. An enjoyable and different vin de soif.
From Whelehans, Loughlinstown, Co Dublin
Veldenzer Elisenberger Riesling Kabinett 2024, Von Richter, Mosel
7.5%, €27-28
Fresh, light and full of orange and orchard fruits, finishing crisp and just a little off-dry. An attractive aperitif or with sushi and seafood.
From TheAllotment.ie; Martin’s Off Licence, Dublin 3; Blackrock Cellar, Co Dublin; Mitchell & Son, Glasthule, Co Dublin and Hatch Street, Dublin 2; Clontarf Wines, Dublin 3; MacCurtain, Cork
