Clink Clink, It’s 2017: Wine Trends To Look For This Year
Clink Clink, It’s 2017: Wine Trends To Look For This Year
January 4, 2017
Story by Jordan Lacenski
Written while celebrating with Veuve Clicquot Ponsardin Brut (because bubbles are the best way to ring in a new year)
There are 361 more days for wining, dining, and tantalizing tastebuds with new beverage trends. With each new year, the ever-changing wine industry seems to bring a varietal to the forefront. 2016 embraced the rise of rosé and brought on the bright idea of wine slushies. Organic wines were in high demand. As 2017 begins, beverage industries will continue to look closely at millennials and their demands. Sustainability is on the forefront of millennial minds, and the methods of wine-making are increasingly important to the consumer.
You can expect to hear more about organic and biodynamic wines this year. Preserving the environment and socially responsible businesses are valued to many consumers and a vineyard’s methods can make their product even more popular. Made from a holistic approach, biodynamic wines have claimed an improved health of their vineyards. Viewing the vineyard as an entire ecosystem, the grapes are farmed with biodynamic methods without any manipulations in yeast or acidity. Organic wines are made from organically grown grapes without any added sulfites and sustainable wines are ecologically sound as well as socially responsibly produced.
The overall demand has been quality over quantity. Wine drinkers are choosing wines because of the story behind them, the rating, and taste. The pricetag is less important. With consumers continuing to demand craft in the spirit and beer categories, we can expect more collaborations such as bourbon barrel aged wines. Quality wines from smaller regions will grace restaurant wine lists.
More and more wine nights are being scheduled at home with wine clubs and winery direct sales. Your favorite wines can be delivered right to your door. Canned wines are making it possible to take Pinot Noir on a picnic. Sparkling wines are continuing their rise, and not just for major celebrations. Bubbles are becoming the perfect beginner for any evening.
The most exciting trend is that people are really interested in trying new things. Wine tastings will continue to be very popular as they offer an opportunity to try obscure wine varietals and to taste wines from new regions. The internet has made it easy to pinpoint the qualities preferred in a wine and purchase other labels with similar traits.
Our challenge to you is to pop the top on something different this year. Celebrate the small things with something special. Take notice of the wineries that align with your values, those that you connect with. Toast to new adventures, new opportunities, and another year to share your favorite wines with your favorite people.
Cheers. Proost. Sláinte. Salute. Salud.
– Jordan Lacenski: Founder & Chief Innovation Officer of BrandBoss Creative
