Restaurants sell more cool climate wines

According to drinks distributor Matthew Clark, sales of wines from countries with cooler climates such as Austria, Germany and New Zealand have tripled among its customer base over the last year.

It said consumers were increasingly seeking out wines with 'refreshing acidity and lower alcohol' with typical cool climate varietals such as Pinot Blanc, Pinot Noir and Sauvignon Blanc leading the way in popularity, up 278, 22 and 12 per cent respectively. 

Some of the biggest sales increases were noticed with Pinot Noir from Central Otago in New Zealand, up 196 per cent and German Riesling, up 61 per cent. 

Simon Jerrome, purchasing director - wine, said: “Our customers are increasingly demanding cool climate wines following a growth in consumer interest in these lighter styles. Consumers are now more wine savvy than ever and appreciate the craftsmanship involved in cultivating grapes in often challenging climates; realising also that these wines are often synonymous with ‘high quality’.”

The uplift in sales of cool climate wines has helped Matthew Clark report a 4.8 per cent increase in revenue since being acquired by Conviviality in October last year. It said it had sold more than 51m bottles of wine to the trade in the last year with wine sales up 7.2 per cent overall. 

Need some tips on boosting wine sales in your pub? Check out The Morning Advertiser's Wine Guide​ for all you need to know.​