It’s become a bit of a tradition for me to look deep into the crystal glass and predict wine trends for the year ahead. These trends are based on other forecasts, stats and consumer behaviour I’m seeing in our wine marketing projects. 

So, here are my top 5 Wine Trend predictions for 2020!

1 | Organic Growth

The organic wine category is continuing to grow, as conscious consumers increasingly demand sustainably produced and organic wines as part of their shift to a more eco-friendly lifestyle.

International research company IWSR is also forecasting that global sales of organic still wine will top 1 billion bottles by 2022, up from 676 million in 2018 and nearly three times the 349 million bottles sold in 2012.

Find out more about the organic outlook here.

2 | Rosé Rules

It seems like old news now but pink sales are still going strong, with New Zealand Rosé wines surpassing Chardonnay as the 4th biggest export wine recently.

With a record number of New Zealand Rosé wines now on offer, finding a Rosé that’s right for you can involve a lot of trial and error. So make sure to check out our latest pink guide here.

Let’s celebrate the rise of Rosé collectively on NZ Rosé Day on 5 February 2020!

3 | Less is More

#dryjanuary is in full swing and with plenty of new non-alcoholic, trendy drinks out there, it has never been easier to stay off the booze.

Health and wellness trends are not only influencing the way we eat but how we drink as well. Low- and no-alcohol wine brands are showing significant growth as consumers increasingly seek better-for-you products, and explore ways to reduce their alcohol intake.

No-alcohol still wine is forecasted at 13.5%, and low-alcohol still wine at 5.6% according to a study released by IWSR in May last year.

Keep an eye on the NZ Lighter Wine initiative and discover some new lighter Sips this year.

4 | Hola Albariño

According to the Real Review, the Spanish variety has been the fastest-growing grape variety in New Zealand for the last four years, growing 27.2% during that time.

And it’s no surprise, given that the outgoing Spaniard is an excellent alternative to Sauvignon Blanc and a delicious match with New Zealand’s extensive seafood offering. Think citrus notes with a touch of spice, subtle saltiness, and uplifting acidity … YUM!

5 | Tech Tools

Technology offers exciting new ways to engage shoppers and wineries are increasingly embracing tech tools including augmented reality, NFC tags, beacons and video to connect with consumers.

Find out more about these tech trends here!

Kim DeMeulemeester, Media Manger at Lothlorien Winery, shares 3 reasons why you have to try their fruit wines at the Oyster Festival Matakana this Sunday.