The Drinks Business is reporting that Tesco shoppers have voiced frustration online over popular wine brands reducing alcohol content, with some accusing producers of quietly lowering alcohol by volume (ABV) levels. Due to rising UK import duties based on alcohol levels, producers are cutting ABVs on budget wines to manage costs. Concha y Toro, for instance, reduced its Isla Negra brand’s ABV from 12% to 10.5%, while Blossom Hill Rosé and Hardys Stamp Shiraz Cabernet also saw cuts.
Several Tesco customers expressed disappointment, describing the wines as weaker and less flavourful, with some wishing the original versions were still available, even at higher prices. Despite the backlash, a few shoppers appreciated the lower ABV for affordability or as a lighter option for casual drinking.
Meanwhile, Morrisons’ wine sourcing manager noted that the UK is unique in these ABV adjustments, suggesting it’s unlikely that all winemakers will change production solely for the UK market.
