Retail Spirits Volumes Inch Upward, As Wine Slips

While the Federal Reserve cut interest rates last week for the first time in more than four years, the U.S. drinks market is still being impacted by high pricing and inventory levels. Total spirits volume in IRI/Circana channels was up less than 1% in the 52-week period ending September 8th. All major categories declined, while spirits-based seltzers increased 14% the past 12 months. Among the 50 largest-selling brands—excluding RTDs—the fastest-growing in the off-premise were Buffalo Trace, Don Julio, and Cazadores.

Total wine volumes declined 4% by volume in IRI/Circana channels during the year-to-date period ending September 8th. The only sectors to register volume growth year-to-date were non-alcoholic wine and sake. Among the largest-selling brands, the fastest-growing in the off-premise were Josh Cellars, Clos du Bois, and Mionetto. The total U.S. wine market is expected to register its fourth consecutive annual volume decline by the end of the year, according to Impact Databank, although it’s projected to eke out a small value increase.

Excluding malt-based seltzer, hard cider and other flavored malt beverages, the beer category fell 3% by volume in IRI/Circana channels during the year-to-date period ending September 8th. Non-alcoholic brews were the fastest-growing segment, while imported beer registered a small increase year-to-date. Bud Light remains the largest-selling beer by volume in the off-premise, but Modelo Especial is number-one in dollar value terms, ahead of Michelob Ultra.—Daniel Marsteller

Tagged : Bud Light, Clos du Bois, Josh Cellars, Michelob Ultra, Mionetto, Modelo

GET YOUR FIRST LOOK AT 2025 ESTIMATES AND 2030 PROJECTIONS FOR THE WINE AND SPIRITS INDUSTRIES. ORDER YOUR 2025 IMPACT DATABANK REPORTS. CLICK HERE.