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More Aussies buy sparkling wine, prosecco, spritz ahead of New Year’s Eve

Oh la la – there’s a new bubbly topping the wish list of Aussie revellers this New Year’s Eve. See the top 10 suburbs where you live and who’s buying which tipple.

Cheers! — 18th century bottles of champagne discovered in shipwreck

Oh la la – there’s a new bubbly topping the wish list of Aussie revellers this New Year’s Eve and it is not French.

Coles Liquor, Dan Murphy’s and Aldi have all seen an uptake in sales of Australian sparkling wine in the lead up to the 2025 countdown.

Sparkling will be the top selling wine category nationally this year, accounting for more than 35 per cent of all wine sales at Coles Liquor, while sparkling and champagne represented almost one in three bottles of wine sold during the Christmas week at Dan Murphy’s.

Coles Liquor General Manager of Customer Loyalty, Mia Horner said they were seeing customers embrace quality alternatives at a great price.

“In fact, Champagne priced around $50 is seeing strong demand with customers switching from premium bottles priced at $80 and above to offers that aren’t compromising on flavour or quality,” she said.

Spritz has enjoyed the largest growth across sparkling white, increasing four times the volume as customers embrace lighter-, sweeter-flavoured options.

Prosecco has also seen strong growth as customers seek value, with purchases up nearly 10 per cent.

“Sparkling white wine is set to take centre stage this New Year, with Australians increasingly opting for prosecco or locally crafted Australian sparkling wines that deliver exceptional value,” she said.

“The $11 –$15 and $20 –$30 price ranges are proving most popular.”

Canard-Duchêne NV Brut Champagne.
Canard-Duchêne NV Brut Champagne.
Ovation Brut Cuvée.
Ovation Brut Cuvée.

Endeavour Group General Manager of Premium Andrew Shedden said some of the $20-$40 drops were made in the same traditional method as Champagne, presenting incredibly good value.

He said customers at his stores, which include Dan Murphy’s and BWS, had also come a long way from flipping through catalogues to find discounts.

“Younger generations are now prioritising experiences that complement their lifestyles, often opting for services that offer ultra-convenience over price-led value,” he said.

“And at this time of year, that means treating themselves to something a bit special that they perhaps wouldn’t normally drink throughout the course of the year – like a Veuve Clicquot, Moet & Chandon or Bollinger.”

Coles Liquor Ambassador, Nikki Phillips. Picture: Jessie Obialor
Coles Liquor Ambassador, Nikki Phillips. Picture: Jessie Obialor

But he did add they were aware that as customers adapt to changes in the cost of living they would look to broaden their basket of goods.

“The cooler climate areas of Australia are really coming to the fore and producing sparkling wines of a quality that is competitive with anywhere else in the world,” he said.

“The $35-$50 price band is also the fastest growing for Australian sparkling wine, with some fantastic options available in the $20-$30 price band as well.”

Award-winning Tasmanian winemaker Tom Wallace is calling on Australians to support local producers.

Award-winning Tasmanian winemaker, Tom Wallace. Picture: Supplied
Award-winning Tasmanian winemaker, Tom Wallace. Picture: Supplied

“By choosing local, you’re not only supporting Tasmanian businesses but also treating yourself to a truly special culinary experience,” he said.

“The crisp acidity and delicate fruit characters of Tasmanian sparkling wines cut through the richness of seafood, creating a match made in heaven.”

Model and TV star Nikki Phillips said she would be toasting to the year that was with a glass of champagne at home in Sydney.

Marie de Moy Champagne Brut NV, $32.99 at Aldi. Picture: UPPLIED
Marie de Moy Champagne Brut NV, $32.99 at Aldi. Picture: UPPLIED

“Enjoying bubbles in my household is the ultimate signal of celebration, and when looking for a bottle to pop, I know I can find a quality, delicious tasting option at a reasonable price,” the Coles Liquor Ambassador said.

“Canard-Duchêne Brut NV is my absolute go-to, it’s fruity, fresh and best of all tastes indulgent without the hefty price.

“For bigger crowds without breaking the bank, the award-winning Ovation Brut Cuvée sourced the Adelaide Hills is perfection. Australia is becoming internationally known for its sparkling wine, and the Ovation offers exceptional value at just $20.”

ALDI also has even cheaper sparkling options for customers that are under $20.

Jason Bowyer, the supermarket’s Wine Expert and Buying Director, said they would recommend the Sofi The Amalfi Lemon Spritz which is making its debut this summer.

Originally published as More Aussies buy sparkling wine, prosecco, spritz ahead of New Year’s Eve

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Original URL: https://www.thechronicle.com.au/news/national/more-aussies-buy-sparkling-wine-prosecco-spritz-ahead-of-new-years-eve/news-story/51db0a059d7ff7484bd26485bca9d5fb