Central Victorian winery, Mitchelton, who celebrate their 40th birthday this year, have added to their popular Preece range with an exciting trio of fresh, crisp aromatic whites which have the desirable attribute of being lighter in alcohol.
This is an ‘in demand’ wine segment in Australia, led by consumers actively seeking low alcohol wines. Over the past year the lower in alcohol category has contributed 33% of the growth in total bottled wine sales.
With most wines in Australia containing around 13% alcohol per standard bottle and some getting up to 15%, the new wines from Preece will be welcomed by those who enjoy wine, but are seeking a lower alcohol option.
The Preece range includes a Semillon Sauvignon Blanc and a Sparkling that are just 9% alcohol – 30% less alcohol than similar blends from the original Preece portfolio. There is also a Moscato which is only 6% alcohol.
For Preece Winemaker Ben Haines (2008 winner of the Wine Society Young Winemaker of the Year award) the objective was to make wines that have lower alcohol with no compromise to style, quality or integrity.
“By working with varietals such as Semillon that are suited to earlier harvesting; selecting high quality grapes with good weight and fruit intensity and picking at lower sugar levels we aimed to achieve wines of aromatic vibrancy, fruit intensity and acidity, with a luscious yet delicate palate.
“While alcohol does contribute to mouthfeel, aroma and flavour impression, lower alcohol levels will expose and highlight the purity of fruit as well as the crisp acidity and freshness in the mouth. This is clearly evident in the wines.” he says.
This is an exciting new direction for Preece who are well known for their popular varietals and fresh style. The packaging for the Lighter in Alcohol wines reflects the direction – fresh, crisp and bright – and if the current dramatic growth of 63% over the past twelve months in lower alcohol wines is any indication, this range will be warmly welcomed by Australian wine consumers.
FOR MORE INFORMATION OR IMAGES:
Fiona MacDonald, PR Manager Fine Wine Partners, P: 02 8335 8016 M: 0411 519 055
E: Fiona.macdonald@finewinepartners.com.au
Ben Haines, Winemaker, Preece and Mitchelton P: 03-5736-2222