From packaging to varietals, these are the wine trends of 2021

Wine is timeless. It shows up in the Bible, Shakespeare, and classic texts from ancient times to our modern-day era. As such, it is understandable why one might assume that wine is immune from trends. 

Despite how indispensable wine has been throughout the ages, it is both a drink and an industry that is open to change. Wine trends have come and gone throughout the years, from glassware preferences to varietals. Wine trends are shaped by consumer demographics and external forces. In today’s market, that often means millennial and Gen Z-buying habits and the effect of Covid-19 on wine drinkers.

In this article, we will explore:

• Direct-to-consumer wine
• Packaging innovations
• Rosé and sparkling wine
• Wine from around the world
• Sustainable wine
• Vineyard visits
• How Domaine Bousquet is contributing 

Here are the wine trends of2021 and beyond. 

Direct-to-consumer wine

Consumers have been seeing ads for wine delivery services for years. These services are direct-to-consumer brands that promise curated wine shipments based on individualized tastes. Several brands have appeared in the market promising a customized, convenient service. 

The pandemic has only escalated the desire for direct-to-consumer wine. Direct-to-consumer wine sales grew by 27% between 2019 and 2020. One curious piece of data revealed that the volume of wine shipments increased, but the price of individual bottles decreased. In 2020, the average price of a wine bottle in a direct-to-consumer shipment was $36.83, indicating that consumers enjoy the convenience of this service, but aren’t willing to pay for luxury brands when using it. 

Another related trend includes the increased use of services such as Instacart and Drizly to order wine. This increased during Covid-19 and will likely continue as the pandemic fades out.

Packaging innovations

Alternatives to the classic glass bottle model continue to grow in the wine market. In 2020, sales of canned wine rose sharply. During a 52-week period that year, canned wine represented $183.6 million in sales. The popularity of hard seltzer may have played a role in this. Canned wine quality has also improved. Younger consumers like canned wine because it is more casual than bottled wine. It is also more portable and does not require a corkscrew. 

Likewise, boxed wine is gaining popularity due to increased quality. Boxed wine packaging is also a sustainable option, which appeals to eco-minded consumers.

Rosé and sparkling wine

Thanks to social media, the aesthetic appeal of rosé wine (and of course, the easy drinkability) is incredibly popular. Sparkling wine, which can be enjoyed at brunch, dinner, or nearly anytime, is also popular. One wine expert predicts that the two trends will merge in 2021 in the form of increased demand for pink prosecco. 

Wine from around the world

In 2018, Italy was the top wine producer in the world, with France, Spain, and the United States trailing just behind. Which country is poised to be an industry leader in 2021? It could likely be Argentina, particularly the Mendoza region, where the majority of the country’s wine is produced. Portugal is another contender. In 2020, wine sales in Portugal grew by 35.1 percent, likely due to the inexpensive, quality wines from the Alentejo region.

Sustainable wine

Sustainability continues to drive consumer buying patterns around the world – and wine is no exception to that habit. In the United States, the sustainability market is on target to reach $150 billion in sales in 2021. Consumers, including wine drinkers, want to support companies that engage in environmentally sound practices that benefit the local flora and fauna. This includes efforts that support biodiversity as well as those that prioritize the well-being of local communities. The ideal sustainable wine brand is certified organic, vegan, and hires locally from within the community it inhabits.

Vineyard visits

As Covid-19 rates drop and vaccination rates rise, people are eager to begin traveling again. The CDC has announced that vaccinated individuals can travel at low risk to themselves. In 2021, wine lovers will be eager to flock to places that offer an exceptional in-person experience. Wineries with on-site restaurants, tasting rooms, and noteworthy scenery will be a priority for travel. 

For those who aren’t able to travel yet in 2021 or don’t feel safe doing so, virtual vineyard tours will be popular. Consumers may also be interested in engaging with wine brands that offer virtual tasting experiences and compelling social media platforms.

How Domaine Bousquet Fits In

Domaine Bousquet produces certified organic and vegan wine at an approachable price point. Located in beautiful Mendoza, Argentina, Domaine Bousquet also offers vineyard tours and an on-site restaurant that features dishes made from the produce in our on-site garden.

Our organic, sustainable practices inform our approach to winemaking and though sustainable, organic wine may be trendy now, we have been making it since 2005. Browse our online selection of delicious wines.