Wine sales in Ireland declined by 13% in 2021 to their lowest level since 2015, according to lobby group Drinks Ireland.

The Wine Market Report 2021 details how wine sales increased during lockdowns in 2020, despite overall alcohol consumption declining, as consumers moved away from beer due to pubs being closed.

The reopening of the on-trade sector in 2021 saw sales of wine fall as drinkers returned to hotels and hostelries.

White wine remains the most popular in Ireland with a 48% market share, with red wine holding a 45% share, both unchanged from 2020.

Rosé has become increasingly popular in Ireland in recent years. While its market share remained static in 2021, it has grown from 3% in 2016 to 7% in 2021.

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Elsewhere, the market share of sparkling wine was marginally down from 2.3% in 2020 to 2.0% in 2021. 

Chilean, Spanish and Australian wines are the top three most popular in Ireland respectively, though their market share all declined slightly in 2021.

French wine saw an increase in its market share in Ireland in 2021. Trade sources attributed this to French wine being easier to export to Ireland compared with the logistical challenges that face wine in other markets. 

Wine is the nation’s second most popular drink after beer, with a market share of 29.3%

Ireland has the highest rate of excise duty tax on wine in Europe, with tax accounting for 54% of the price of a standard bottle.

Drinks Ireland is calling for a 15% decrease on excise on wine over the next two budgets.

Jonathan McDade, director of wine at Drinks Ireland, stated: “As the cost-of-living crisis worsens, Irish consumers face the highest excise on wine in the EU, which is €3.19 on a standard bottle. For sparkling wine drinkers, the excise hit is doubled with a rate of €6.37 on a standard bottle.

“This is effectively a tax on life’s celebrations and special occasions. This disproportionate high level of tax must urgently be addressed at this challenging time.“