The Growth of White Wine

White wines are in the midst of a boom cycle as U.S.sales surpassed red wines in 2024. That same year global white wine sales were up 3% while red wines were down 3%. Why is this and what might red wine producers learn?

 

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Chardonnay and Pinot Gris are showing some growth while Sauvignon Blanc sales surged. The likely reasons are consumers looking for fresh, light, lower alcohol and food-friendly choices. Also, prices are generally lower for white wines vs. reds. 

It seems many are weary of the full, heavy, high alcohol $50-up reds. A couple of reasons red wines were so popular were complexity and food-friendliness--things that get lost when alcohol levels rise too far.

As wine prices rose many look for less expensive alternatives. Do you go for cheaper reds or quality whites that are priced better? Prices have increased significantly since the Pandemic driven by everything from fires to higher production costs to tariffs on imports. 

Rhone whites have been in California for a while, just not really popular. The top ones are Viognier, Roussanne, and Marsanne. There seems to be newfound interest in lesser-known whites like Chenin Blanc, Albarino, and Vermentino. A few crazies are even drinking Austria's Gruner Veltliner even though it's difficult to say with spitting on yourself. 😁

Albarino from Sonoma Valley

Some like the crisp, higher acid whites, such as Sauvignon Blanc, Albarino, Vermentino, and Riesling. Some like the softer whites like Viognier, plus most American Chardonnay and Pinot Gris. 

There's lots of fun experimentation you can do. There's warm weather approaching making chilled whites appealing. Plus you save money--something everyone is trying to do.