Red wine is expected to be the most popular tipple in households across Ireland this Christmas.
Research has indicated that Merlot in particular is topping the poll as Ireland’s wine of choice this festive season while natural wines are also on the rise among younger drinkers.
The research, commissioned by Musgrave MarketPlace, found that more than a third of drinkers are opting for red this Christmas Day, while some 10 per cent will not drink wine.
Despite Sauvignon Blanc reigning supreme as Ireland’s favourite grape variety all year round, red is the festive preference particularly among the older age groups with almost 40 per cent of those between the age of 35-55 years preferring red over any other wine variety with their Christmas dinner.
For 18–34-year-olds, it was neck and neck between red wine and Prosecco, with each taking a quarter of the vote.
Residents of Limerick bucked the nationwide trend however, staying true to their love of a Sauvignon Blanc all year round no matter the weather.
The research also found that with many households feeling the pinch of the ongoing cost of living crisis, almost 60 per cent of all drinkers said price is the number one consideration when buying a bottle with three-quarters intending to drink at home this festive season and only a third intending to eat and drink out of home this year.
The average spend on a bottle of wine from an off-licence is between €12-17. This is comparative with the average spend on a bottle of wine in a restaurant or bar of €24-35.
But for the quarter of the population who deem themselves wine afficionados, price is no barrier – instead it is the region or country of the wine that will drive that purchase.
Half of all drinkers from Limerick and Cork are most likely to take a recommendation from a friend when picking a bottle of wine.
The research also showed a mixed bag in terms of confidence when we do head out, with a third eager to taste and test the wine when offered, another third not caring to taste and a final third “fudging” it while admitting they have no idea what they are doing.
Conor O’Brien, wine sales specialist at Musgrave MarketPlace said the rise in popularity of natural wines is interesting, with some consumers looking for more organic and sustainable options.
“With the festive season upon us, our research has shown us that with darker evenings brings a taste for darker wine.
“Red wine, particularly Merlot, is the top choice for Christmas Day, with almost 40 per cent of those aged 35-55 plus preferring it over other varieties,” he said.
“What’s very interesting is that fizzy options, while great for a celebration, have fallen down the pecking order, however natural wines are on the rise – as health-conscious consumers look to more organic and sustainable options both in the food aisle and in the off-licence.
“There’s now a bigger selection of natural wines on restaurant and wine bar menus, offering customers a point of difference.”
