The Rise of Low-Calorie Wines

It's no secret that today's consumers, especially the younger cohorts of Millennials and Gen Z, are increasingly drawn to healthier lifestyle choices, including what they drink. This shift is vividly illustrated in the burgeoning popularity of low-calorie wines, a category that's bustling with growth even as overall wine consumption has experienced a slight decline.

Back in 2016, the seeds of this trend were sown not by wine, but by the meteoric rise of hard seltzers like White Claw and Truly, which captured the market with their low-calorie allure. However, as the novelty of malt-based seltzers waned during the pandemic, a door opened for wine producers to court wellness-minded drinkers.

Despite a drop in total U.S. wine market volumes for the third year running in 2023, according to Impact Databank, low-calorie wines bucked the trend, registering impressive double-digit growth. These wines not only surpassed three million cases for the first time but also demonstrated robust sales in the "better for you" sector, which soared by 11.4% to reach $788.5 million.

Early entrants to the market like Fitvine, Avaline, Bev, and Sunny With a Chance of Flowers quickly established themselves as key players. Many of these brands were barely on the radar a few years ago but have since become household names for those seeking healthier wine options. Not resting on their laurels, established wine producers have also entered the fray with healthier variants of well-loved brands. Bota Box, Yellow Tail, Cupcake, and Kim Crawford have expanded their offerings to include low-calorie options, appealing to a broader audience.

This year has seen a continued flurry of activity in the low-calorie wine space, with brands like Menage a Trois, Chateau Ste. Michelle, and a notably intriguing low-calorie, low-alcohol, and low-carb variant from Coppola Diamond Collection named Vibrance adding to the diversity. Success in this category is increasingly tied to visibility and availability, particularly in the on-premise sector, where pairing lighter wines with equally light menu options can enhance dining experiences.

Moreover, the strategic placement of these wines on restaurant lists will be crucial for their continued growth and acceptance. As more diners seek out lighter, healthier options, the presence of these wines in dining establishments can lead to greater consumer adoption and deeper market penetration.

The enthusiasm for low-calorie wines reflects a broader trend towards moderation and mindfulness in consumption habits. With each passing year, more wine drinkers are reaching for bottles that offer not only great taste and quality but also align with their dietary preferences and lifestyle goals.

The growth of this segment is a telling sign that the wine industry is adeptly pivoting to meet changing consumer preferences, ensuring that wine remains a cherished part of our meals and social gatherings, just with a healthier twist. So, here's to enjoying your next glass of wine, knowing it's not just good, but also good for you!