UK retailer Tesco has launched a new range of wines that are nearly alcohol-free – less than 0.5% ABV – but are 'virtually indistinguishable' in terms of taste when compared to standard wine, according to the retailer.
The range, which is exclusive to Tesco, features three wine varieties: Cabernet-Tempranillo, Granacha-Rosé, and Sauvignon Blanc.
Real Alternative
James Davis, master of wine at Tesco, said that this is the first supermarket range that offers customers "a real comparable alternative" to wine.
“With the consumption of alcohol in the UK down by 18% over the last decade, we're seeing an increasing number of customers who want to enjoy the social aspect of having a drink, and are looking for a quality wine-drinking experience, but without the alcohol."
“In recent years, we've seen improvements in the quality and range of low- and no-alcohol ciders and beers, which have put wine firmly in the shade."
Development
The wines have been developed in partnership with Spanish wine producer Felix Solis, using a new technique that gently removes the alcohol during the fermenting process.
The retailer says that most other non-alcoholic wines are produced by replacing alcohol with sugars and artificial flavours, but that this new method doesn't sacrifice 'the aroma, quality and flavour profile' of the wine.
The wines will be available in over 700 Tesco stores across the UK and online, and priced at £3.
© 2017 European Supermarket Magazine – your source for the latest retail news. Article by Sarah Harford. Click subscribe to sign up to ESM: The European Supermarket Magazine.
