Wine: To Be or Not to Be Wine - De-Alcoholized vs Non-Alcoholic

2022 Glimmer 100% Chardonnay 0.5% abv $30

The Buzz: De-alcoholized vs. Non-Alcoholic Wines in BC

​You've heard the buzz, seen the grocery store shelves, even liquor store shelves – non-alcoholic (NA) beverages are everywhere! From Dry January to Sober September, the "sober curious" movement is gaining momentum, with people of all ages reaching for refreshing sips sans booze. And our BC wine scene? It's answering the call! But as you explore this newish category, you might notice two terms: "de-alcoholized" and "non-alcoholic." Are they the same? Not quite, and understanding this nuance may be key to finding your next favorite glass. As a wine gal, I'll admit this is not my category, but I'm interested and intrigued by their potential, especially for younger generations and non-drinkers like my own kids.

Oddbird Spumante (Glera) 0.48% abv $30

The Essential Distinction: Craftsmanship Matters

De-alcoholized Wine: This is a "process". It starts with a wine that is first fully fermented, traditionally made wine from wine grapes. After the wine is made, the alcohol is gently removed using sophisticated processes like vacuum distillation (often via spinning cone columns). Oddbird, for example, uses a revolutionary low-temperature method that aims to preserve the wine's original flavors, aromas, and structure. For the record, when I was opening Wine & Beyond in 2021, I brought in Sweden's Oddbird. The bubbles and rosé really set a high quality bar for this category globally. A more recent local choice, Glimmer, produced in Penticton, BC, uses reverse osmosis for this de-alcoholized style made from 100% Chardonnay grapes. At 0.5% ABV, it promises low alcohol, flavor, sophistication (just look at the packaging) and satisfaction for those seeking an alternative to sparkling wine.

Non-Alcoholic Wine (The Broader Term): This term is a "category". While de-alcoholized wines fall under this umbrella, "non-alcoholic" can also include beverages that never contained alcohol from fermentation. While often enjoyable, this category may lack the depth and complexity that comes from the traditional winemaking process. This isn't just semantics; it speaks to the craftsmanship involved. When a winery, global or local, produces a de-alcoholized wine, they've gone through the full winemaking process, resulting in a beverage that tastes like wine, even without the alcohol. It's a game-changer for those wanting a sensory experience without the effects. In a word: innovation.

Low Alcohol: Clos du Soleil 100% Sangiovese 9% abv $25

Low Alcohol: Clos du Soleil 100% Sauvignon Blanc 9% abv $25

Nuance Matters to Your Glass of BC Goodness!

While we don't have established "leaders" in the de-alcoholized wine space in BC yet, I've tried a few, and honestly? I'm struggling with both flavour profile, mouth feel and price. Glimmer offers a pretty label, heavy bottle and a $30 price tag to match. The flavour profile was delicate aromas and flavours of apple, reminiscent of cider which didn't quite hit the mark for me. This highlights the taste challenge, but also the equally giant opportunity! I also tasted ONES, a better price but a less desirable taste experience. 

New entrants are arriving. For example Winemaker's CUT with their "Opera Room" offerings are making exciting strides in the NA space in bottles (750 & 375 ml) and cans.  I have yet to taste. The point however, is, wineries must truly nail that de-alcoholized wine profile, and not create a grape-y almost beverage.

What about "low alcohol" wines? This is a tempting approach because it's closer to the real deal. Clos du Soleil for example, is making the Lumière Collection (around 9% ABV) – wines that retain all the complexities of traditional wine but with noticeably less alcohol. Perfect for fewer calories, lighter sips, summer surrender, but if you are "dry" then this is out of the question.

Incognito Rose Blend 0.6% abv $26

Incognito Blanc Blend 0.6% abv $26

 The Consumer's Trifecta: Taste, Value & Convenience

The market for non-alcoholic options in Canada is projected to reach nearly $50 million by 2030! Consumers want quality, healthier choices that don't compromise on taste or the social ritual. However, here's the cold, hard truth: this trend will diminish if we don't consistently offer good taste and true value. When a $30 bottle of de-alcoholized wine doesn't hit the mark, or a $15 non-alcoholic option tastes like glorified pop, consumers will bail. Honestly? Because I'm not a NON fan, I'd rather spend $3-$5 on a San Pellegrino "Limonata" – it's sweet, tart, fresh, and delivers exactly what it promises! Taste, value and oh ya, convenience. It's the consumers satisfaction trifecta. So where does that leave us?

It All Starts With "Good Wine" 

I drift back to the question we should be asking - how do we ensure a vibrant BC wine industry given the multitude of recent climate challenges and changing consumer patterns? Adapt or die? Innovation and experimentation?  My grandma would say, "stick to the knitting". My belief is make "good wine" first. The rest will follow. Let me know what you think. Leave me a comment below. Cheers and thanks for reading.