Greetings and Happy New Year! I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for the opportunity to connect with you during the 2024 calendar year. Whether it was via email, in-store, or within the community — I loved meeting you, answering your questions and sharing a glass. Wine has the capacity to represent a lot of different things… my favorite always being that of connection! Because of wine, I have met so many of you and subsequently, have learned so much!
We kick things off this year with a few forward-thinking questions regarding what to expect in 2025.
1. What sustainable practices are expected to dominate the wine industry in 2025?
Sustainability will be at the forefront of the wine industry, with many wineries adopting organic and biodynamic farming practices. Expect to see a significant increase in the use of regenerative agriculture techniques, which focus on restoring soil health and biodiversity. Additionally, wineries will likely invest in renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind, to power their operations. Packaging will also shift towards eco-friendly materials, with many producers opting for lightweight bottles and alternative closures that reduce environmental impact.
2. How will consumer preferences shape the types of wines produced in 2025?
This year, consumer preferences are expected to lean towards sober curious lower-alcohol, higher-acidity wines that are more food-friendly and refreshing. There will be a growing interest in natural wines, which are made with minimal intervention and often showcase unique terroirs. Additionally, wine drinkers will increasingly seek out wines that tell a story, emphasizing local and artisanal production. This trend will lead to a rise in popularity for lesser-known grape varieties and regions, as wine drinkers become more adventurous and eager to explore diverse offerings. As I often say: there are over 10,000 grape varieties in the world… drink differently!
3. What does “sober curious” mean?
As more people embrace a sober (curious) lifestyle, there will be a growing demand for non-alcoholic and low-alcohol wine options. Wineries are expected to respond by developing innovative products that cater to this audience, including alcohol-free wines and lower-alcohol varietals that maintain the complexity and flavor profiles consumers seek. The sober curious movement will be pivotal in 2025, driving innovation in product offerings, marketing strategies, and consumer experiences. Wineries that adapt to these changes will likely find new opportunities to connect with a growing audience that values mindful consumption and quality experiences. There is a decent amount of non-alcoholic wines on the market. Currently, very few are worth your time… I tasted a lot and can proudly suggest, Noughty De-Alcholized Syrah and Leitz Eins Zwei Zero Sparkling Riesling.
Noughty De-Alcholized Syrah and Leitz Eins Zwei Zero Sparkling Riesling
4. What role will technology play in the wine industry by 2025?
Technology will continue to revolutionize the wine industry, with advancements in precision viticulture becoming more widespread. Wineries will increasingly utilize drones, sensors, and AI to monitor vineyard health, optimize irrigation, and enhance grape quality. Additionally, blockchain technology may be adopted for better traceability and transparency in the supply chain, allowing consumers to know the origin of their wines. Virtual reality and augmented reality experiences will also emerge, providing consumers with immersive ways to learn about wine production and tasting, enhancing their overall experience.
As always, I look forward to hearing from you and answering your questions.
Continued health and success in 2025!
Drink Passionately,
Michael Bray
