Unwrapping 2023's Holiday Alcohol Trends

As we deck the halls and trim our trees in preparation for the festive season, there's always one essential question on our minds: what's bubbling in our glasses this year? The latest scoop from the Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America’s SipSource might just have the answer, and it's not quite what you'd expect!

While many of us are eagerly awaiting the joyous holiday get-togethers, it seems our liquor cabinets might not be as stuffed as years past. The holiday alcohol trends of 2023 show that a significant 42% of merry-makers plan to spend less on alcohol. However, before you lament a less spirited holiday, nearly half are simply tightening the purse strings without sacrificing the cheer. How? Well, it's all about quality over quantity. A penchant for more premium bottles is emerging. Spirits that set you back over $25 and wines with price tags beyond $15 are expected to see a 3% sales surge. So, while the overall volume might be dwindling, our tastes are certainly becoming more refined. Perhaps the era of savoring a single glass of top-tier tipple over an entire evening is upon us.

But it's not just our holiday homes that are witnessing a shift. Convenience stores are becoming the unsung heroes of our alcohol adventures. Spirits, in particular, are seeing an impressive 7% rise in these quick-stop locales year-to-date through August. Wines aren't left behind either, with varieties like the crisp Sauvignon Blanc, refreshing Pinot Grigio, and versatile white blends leading the way in performance.

So, as 2023's holiday season jingles around, it's clear that while we might be buying fewer bottles, we're ensuring each one counts. Whether you're hunting for that perfect spirit in your local convenience store or splurging on a premium wine for the dinner table, one thing's for certain: this festive season, we're raising our glasses to quality!