Wine Trends to Watch This Summer in New Zealand

As the New Zealand summer heats up, wine lovers are embracing a variety of fresh, exciting trends that are shaping the way people choose their wines. From lighter, more affordable options to new varietals that are perfect for the season, wine consumption is evolving as shoppers look for wines that fit both their budgets and their tastes.

The Rise of Prosecco and Rosé

One of the standout trends this summer is the significant growth in the popularity of Prosecco. Over the past 52 weeks, Prosecco has seen a notable surge, making it a go-to option for many occasions. Whether it’s a birthday, dinner party, or simply a quiet night in, Prosecco has become synonymous with celebrations and casual enjoyment alike. Its light, bubbly nature makes it perfect for any summer occasion.

Rosé, another perennial summer favourite, continues to dominate the wine scene as well. Known for its versatility and refreshing qualities, Rosé is best enjoyed chilled and shared with friends and family. It’s a summer staple that never goes out of style, offering a perfect balance between a crisp white and a full-bodied red.

Exploring New Varietals: Albariño and Moscato

While Prosecco and Rosé are beloved choices, Albariño is a varietal that’s making waves for those looking to try something a little different. Liz Razey-Watts, Assistant Category Manager for Wine at Foodstuffs, suggests that Albariño is an excellent white wine for both new and experienced consumers. It might seem a bit intimidating at first, but its aromatic, tangy, and fresh profile is perfect for the summer heat, making it an exciting new option for wine enthusiasts.

Younger consumers, especially Gen Z and Gen Y, are leading the charge in embracing lighter, sweeter wines. Wines such as Moscato, Rosé, and Riesling have become favorites, making up 80% of customers purchasing these fruity, refreshing wines. These varietals are perfect for casual sipping and pair wonderfully with a variety of summer dishes, from light salads to grilled seafood.

New World Wine Awards Winners to Try

If you’re looking for recommendations, Liz suggests trying some of the recent winners from the New World Wine Awards, which highlight the best of what New Zealand wine has to offer. Here are a few standout wines to add to your summer collection:

• BRILLA Prosecco Rosé DOC 2023: A top 50 gold award winner, this Prosecco Rosé boasts finesse and fine fruit flavors, making it a perfect choice for any special occasion.

• Te Kano Life Rosé 2023: This Champion Rosé is elegant and dry, with fine aromatics and a vibrant finish, making it an ideal choice for those who enjoy a crisp, refreshing wine.

• Tohu SV Whenua Matua Albariño 2021: The Champion of the New World Wine Awards, this Albariño offers aromatic, tangy, and fresh notes of lime and floral scents, with a crisp finish that makes it perfect for summer sipping.

The Sustainability Trend and Health Conscious Choices

As consumer preferences continue to evolve, sustainability remains a key factor in purchasing decisions. More wine drinkers are opting for sustainable wine options, reflecting a broader shift toward environmentally conscious choices in all areas of life. Along with sustainability, there’s a noticeable trend toward consuming less alcohol overall. Health-conscious consumers are increasingly prioritizing their well-being, and lighter wines or wines with lower alcohol content are becoming popular as a result.

The Future of Wine in New Zealand

As the weather warms up and summer activities begin, New Zealanders are enjoying a diverse array of wines, with an emphasis on light, refreshing options that suit the season. Whether you're popping open a bottle of Prosecco for a celebration or discovering a new favourite Albariño, there’s a wine for every occasion this summer.

This season, expect more shoppers to explore new varietals, embrace sustainable wine options, and make health-conscious choices—all while continuing to enjoy the timeless pleasure of a great glass of wine. Cheers to a wonderful summer of wine!