Sparkling wine sales in the UK have dropped for the first time in five years as nation passed ‘peak prosecco’
SPARKLING wine sales in the UK have dropped for the first time in five years, stats show.
Money experts believe the nation has passed “peak prosecco” — with younger people ditching the “must-buy” drink for trendier tipples.
The current economic climate has also been blamed for three million fewer sparkling wine bottles sold last year.
There were 214 million bought in 2018 — down from 217 million the year before, according to accountancy group UHY Hacker Young.
Martin Jones, a partner at the group, said: “After years of growing popularity for sparkling wine, we have finally passed peak prosecco.
“Prosecco very quickly went from chilled bottles in expensive bars to T-shirts across the country.
"For a drink that trades on its luxury, being available everywhere can damage its image.
“Can anyone blame drinkers in the UK for not cracking open the sparkling wine at the same rate?
most read in money
“I’m not sure 2018 will be looked back on as a vintage year for celebrations by very many people.”
The growing popularity of artisan gin and rum cocktails has also turned younger drinkers away from fizz.
Mr Jones added: “Just as quickly as prosecco became the must-buy drink for young people, pink gin and rum could replace it.”
- GOT a story? RING The Sun on 0207 782 4104 or WHATSAPP on 07423720250 or EMAIL [email protected]