Retailers Bank On Sparklers To Maximize Holiday Sales

Impact Databank projects total sparkling wine imports to decline by volume this year, but better conditions in the $10 and over segment are expected to propel the segment to an overall gain in dollar terms. Retailers are looking to make the most of bubbly’s popularity this holiday season, leveraging key categories like Prosecco.

At McCabes Wine & Spirits in New York City, owner Daniel Mesznik says sparkling wine sales remain solid but are down from 2022. “People are more budget-conscious this year,” he says. “The outlook in the run-up to the New Year is there is so much product on the market that we are focused on finding the best Cava, Crémant, and Prosecco for our customers.” Leading non-Champagne sparklers at the store include Natale Verga Prosecco ($13), Jaffelin Crémant de Bourgogne Rosé Brut ($30), Roger Luquet Crémant de Bourgogne ($32), and Fazio Grillo Spumante Brut DOC Sicilia ($20.20).

In Denver, Colorado, Argonaut Wine and Liquor is selling sparkling wines at special prices. “People are changing how they buy because of the economy,” says wine buyer Sheila Carey. “Prices are going up, so some folks are choosing cheaper options. That’s affecting how much sparkling wine we sell. This year, in Colorado, we’re selling a bit less sparkling wine than last year. People are looking for new wines instead of their usual ones.”

Argonaut’s best-selling Champagnes are Veuve Clicquot Brut Yellow Label ($64 a 750-ml.), Laurent-Perrier Brut ($57), Nicolas Feuillatte ($42), and Pol Roger Brut ($64). Leading non-Champagne sparkling wines include La Marca Prosecco ($16) and Cristalino Cava ($9). “Unlike during the pandemic, everything’s been smooth sailing with plenty of stock,” Carey notes.

In Port Chester, New York, Zachys is spotlighting such Champagnes as Dom Pérignon ($330 to $13,000 a 750-ml.) and Laurent Perrier Grand Siècle ($260 for the recently released No. 26). Other top-selling Champagnes including Taittinger ($260 to $600), Krug ($230 to $1,700), Pierre Péters ($75 to $135), and Jacques Selosse ($800 to $1,000). The store’s marketing efforts focus on tastings and social media posts that offer suggestions for different holiday moments.

“We’re highlighting our discoveries in sparkling wines and Champagnes under $50, along with vintage selections under $100, showcasing exceptional quality at different prices,” says Tom Zacharia, lead buyer for Champagne and new world wines. Leading non-Champagne sparkling wines at Zachy’s include Leonia Pomino ($45) and Raventós ($20 to $30). “While renowned brands will always draw interest, we’re witnessing an increasing curiosity to explore beyond these familiar names,” Zacharia says. “Clients are more open to trying wines from smaller producers and regions.”—Kevin Barry

Tagged : Argonaut, Laurent-Perrier, McCabes Wine & Spirits, Natale Verga Prosecco, Veuve Clicquot, Zachys

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