The latest study by the British wine industry analysts IWSR, confirms the USA is the largest wine consuming country on the planet. Regarding production, the usual suspects are still on top : France, Italy and Spain.
On the consumption per capita podium we find Italy (48 litres/year), France and surprising Switzerland. Spain is going through a major culture change : wine consumption dropped dramatically (-14%) from 2009 to 2013, it now ranks 20th . The USA with approximately 12 liters is not in the Top 20 per capita consuming countries. Canadian wine consumption continues to increase. According to the IWSR study it should increase by another 7,8% by 2018 and reach 16,4 liters per adult.
Canada is a booming dynamic import market which ranks 6th behind Germany, the United Kingdom, the USA, China and the Netherlands. Regarding countries supplying wines for the Canadian market, France continues to loose shares and now ranks 3dr behind Italy and the USA. Since 2008, the numbers clearly demonstrate that Canadian consumers are moving towards New World wines : New-Zealand (+17,7%), USA (+9,7 %) and Chile (+4,8 %) continue to grab more market shares.
Red : still the favorite
Worldwide red wine (54 %) remains the preferred colour ahead of white (37%) and rosé (9%). Canadian producers and especially Quebec wineries should take note that sparkling wines continue to gain in popularity in almost all markets.
Here are a few good wines to help you contribute to our increasing consumption.
A bargain white from Chile :
Chardonnay Estate Series 2013 Valle de Casablanca, Errazuriz, Chile $14,95 00318741
A lovely Chardonnay in a very modern trendy style. Many Chilean producers have toned down the oak aging thus enhacing the fruit and terroir characteristics. The nose displays a bit of oak with lots of apple, pear and tropical fruits. A velvety texture and soft acidity add charm to this flavorful Chardonnay. Perfect with grilled salmon. Score : 87+/100
Two charming whites from Provence :
Clos d’Albizzi 2013 Cassis, F. Dumon, France 20,90 $ 12123809
Made with Clairette, Marsanne and Ugni Blanc, this white seduces with finesse and lean fresh flavours. Slightly fruity with hints of honey. The typical (2013) high acidity delivers additionnal freshness and elegance. Just enough character to marry with grilled shrimp with coriander and lemon. Score : 88/100
Bandol 2013 Clos de l’Olivette, France 25,10 $ 10884559
This small appellation is reputed for its red wines, but Bandol can also produce elegant whites. Quite typical of the cooler 2013 vintage, it remains fresh, light and seductive. Made mainly with Clairette (90%), a 10% of Sauvignon Blanc adds welcomed fruity aromas. Some refreshing bitterness on the finish contributes to its balance and length. A refined white ideally served with seafood pasta. Score : 88/100
And some flavorful reds :
Cabernet Sauvignon Max Reserva 2012 Valle de Aconcagua, Errazuriz, Chile $19.25 00335174
Deeply coloured with scents of field berries (blackberries and currant), grilled red peppers and a hint of oak. Rich, fairly concentrated with some solid tannins for aging (3 to 5 years). Well balanced with good length, this excellent red will marry well with beef and brocoli in tamari sauce. Score : 88/100
Massaya Classic 2012 Bekaa Valley, Tanaïl, Lebanon $16.85 10700764
A lovely blend of Cinsault (60 %), Cabernet Sauvignon (20 %) and Syrah (20%) that offers a spicy fruity character. Some red berries and floral hints add complexity. Soft and seductive, this easy drinking supple red should match well with chicken breats stuffed with prosciutto and Fontina cheese. Score : 87+/100
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