To address the growing demand for moderation in drinking habits, winemakers are increasingly adopting techniques from the nonalcoholic wine industry to produce low-alcohol wines. This shift allows them to create options that are not only lower in alcohol but also lower in calories while maintaining enjoyable flavors and aromas, appealing particularly to wellness-conscious consumers.

Perris Fiori, the senior vice president of marketing for Ste. Michelle Wine Estates, notes that the moderation trend has transitioned from a seasonal phenomenon to a year-round behavior, providing consumers with more alternatives for various occasions. For instance, Chateau Ste. Michelle has introduced its LIGHT series, featuring wines with 9% alcohol-by-volume (ABV) and 80 calories per serving, intentionally crafted to retain balance and flavor.

The focus on calorie content appears to resonate more with consumers than the alcohol level itself. Fiori explains that many consumers prioritize calorie counts over ABV, as the relationship between the two can be confusing. This insight has driven winemakers to ensure that their lower-calorie wines still deliver a high-quality experience.

The Duckhorn Portfolio’s recent launch of the Decoy Featherweight series incorporates this approach, removing a portion of alcohol from full-strength California wines to maintain the essence while lowering their ABV to 9% and calories to 80. Chanel Caplan, Duckhorn’s chief marketing officer, cites significant growth in the lower-calorie wine segment and highlights increasing popularity among women, millennials, and Gen Z drinkers.

Industry experts affirm that no- and low-alcohol wines create inclusivity within the traditionally exclusive wine industry. Sarah Tracey, a certified sommelier, appreciates the convenience of readily available lower-alcohol choices in grocery stores, enabling consumers to make informed selections without extensive research.

Additionally, wines such as the 7% ABV sparkling rosé Que Pop have gained traction, especially in contexts like music festivals where casual enjoyment is key. Rob Fischer, from Valkyrie Selections, emphasizes the noticeable trend of shifting consumer preferences towards lower-alcohol options.

Ultimately, the quest for enjoyable wines that align with health-conscious choices continues to influence production techniques. Experts like Peter Eastlake advocate for the quality of flavor in lower-alcohol wines, while Keyatta Mincey highlights the benefits of partial de-alcoholization, balancing expressiveness with lower alcohol content.

Recommended Low-Alcohol Wines to Try:

• 2025 Chateau Ste. Michelle LIGHT Columbia Valley Sauvignon Blanc ($12)
• 2025 Kim Crawford Illuminate New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc ($15)
• 2025 Liquid Light Wines Washington Rosé ($15)
• 2025 Que Pop Sonoma Coast Session Rosé ($20)
• 2024 Sunny With a Chance Of Flowers Monterey Chardonnay ($17)
• 2024 Wölffer Hamptons Light Low-Alcohol Rheinhessen Pinot Blanc ($24)
• 2023 Decoy Featherweight California Cabernet Sauvignon ($25)