A non-alcoholic wine, really?
Alright, let’s be clear right from the start: non-alcoholic wine sounds like a good joke told at the end of the evening. And yet, it’s a reality that’s slowly but surely making its way into our lives. Thanks to advanced techniques like vacuum distillation, reverse osmosis, or controlled fermentation, we can get a wine that's free of alcohol but still full of flavor. Well, in theory...
Behind this trend, there are ambitious brands like French Bloom, which are raising millions to perfect their products. Who’s drinking it? Expectant mothers, fans of Dry January, or anyone curious about enjoying a drink without the hangover.
But what do our Burgundy winemakers think, those who dream of showcasing their terroir in every sip? That’s where opinions start to get heated.
A threat to terroir or a stroke of genius?
For Armand Heitz, a winemaker in Chassagne-Montrachet, Dry January is nice, but it can’t replace a true wine experience...
a reflection on our consumption. According to him, the real challenge is to drink less but better: “Isn't it preferable to spread out our consumption and improve its quality throughout the year instead of just stopping alcohol for one month?”A clear message: supporting our artisans is essential to keep Burgundy culture alive.
But let's be realistic: alcohol-free wine could also open doors. By broadening the target audience: pregnant women, drivers, and even Muslim markets, there’s potential to make the wine economy shine in a new light. Far from replacing traditional wine, this segment could complement the offerings and create unexpected consumption opportunities.
A compromise to explore
What if we stepped out of the clivages? Between the purists of authentic wine and the fans of non-alcoholic options, there might just be a compromise: embracing diversity without renouncing our identity. After all, a Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru doesn’t need to feel threatened by a bottle of non-alcoholic drink at happy hour.
So, dear reader, what do you think of this evolution? Does non-alcoholic wine feel like a sacrilege to you or is it an opportunity to seize? Whatever your stance, one thing is certain: Burgundy will always know how to make a splash, with or without alcohol. And that calls for a celebration... with moderation, of course!