Low Alcohol Wines (Below 11.0%)

What Are Low Alcohol Wines?

Alcohol by volume in wine increased drastically during the latter half of the 20th century, as grape growers learned to grow healthier vines with ever-riper fruit. Specialised yeast and better equipment also allowed winemakers to make the most of the sweet grape juice, resulting in bolder wines, often with alcohol by volume of over 14%.

Wines with alcohol below 9% became rare. However, they are often more balanced and easier to drink than regular high-alcohol wines. They can be just as complex on the nose and pleasing on the palate.

Wine to Try

These are a few of our favourite new arrivals. They are low-alcohol wines that deliver the most charming experience without relying on high alcohol levels.

Vin de France - Vignobles Dubois #9 Max White

This lively and zesty white wine is summery and vibrant. The fresh tropical fruit flavours and herbal hints of Sauvignon Blanc shine through while grippy acidity makes it thirst-quenching. Dubois’ #9 Max has only 9% alcohol by volume, making it a versatile session wine to enjoy.

Vin de France - Vignobles Dubois #9 Max Red

This wine results from the unique combination of two medium-bodied grapes known for their round, chewy tannins and black and blue fruit aromas: Merlot and Malbec. Expect blueberries, black cherries, plums and hints of mocha.

Alsace Gewurztraminer - Joseph Cattin Brume de Vigne White

With an exceptional bouquet of rose petals, wildflowers, and candied citrus peels, this copper-hued Alsatian Gewurztraminer delivers immense pleasure on the nose and palate. Refreshing acidity balances the dry, medium-bodied wine, while the low alcohol of only 8.5% makes it an easy sipper to enjoy all evening. Ideally, enjoy it as an apéritif or with light meals like bound salads.

Low-Alcohol Wines Are More Than a Trend

Low-alcohol wines are trending, but they are not a fad. At the turn of the century the market demanded big, bold and alcoholic wines. Today, wine producers answer to a new demand: demand for elegant, sophisticated wines that don’t rely on high alcohol levels to shine.

There is immense pleasure in wine tasting. The extraordinary variety of flavours and aromas, refreshing acidity, and textural complexity all play a part in making wine a delight, and alcohol plays its part, too. However, the secret behind the greatest wines is simple: balance. Well, lower alcohol levels are certainly a way to achieve it!