A recent survey showed that, last year, British consumers drank some 2% less wine than in 2021. That figure doesn’t surprise me; just look at the way prices – particularly of essential items – rocketed in 2022 without incomes going up to compensate. And however much we enjoy our wine, it is, after all, a luxury and so, if you need to cut back, inevitably, wine is high on the list. And I’m afraid I can’t bring any good news. Many of the elements that go to make up the cost of a bottle of wine are still rising and I’m not clear how much the changes in the way wine is taxed in the UK, due to come in on 1 August, will affect prices. Something tells me they won’t go down!
So, although for some, saving money by drinking less will be the only option, many should be thinking about drinking smarter. Discount offers are always around or look for wines from lesser-known regions or grape varieties, which are often attractively priced – check my blogs for suggestions! Or you could talk to your local wine merchant – they will know the good buys and will be happy to advise, hoping that you will come back in better times. And don’t forget the supermarkets. Their mass-purchasing powers can often turn up something that is remarkable value for money.
Like the bottle of Grove Mill Pinot Noir from Marlborough in New Zealand that I picked up in our local Co-op recently (£10.50). It had everything you could want from a good Pinot Noir: a typical savoury nose, flavours of damsons and spice on the palate and a long fresh, clean finish. Not exactly bargain basement but you could easily pay twice as much for something similar.
In challenging economic times, it’s all about looking around and drinking smarter.
Wine talks and tastings 