Liquor Industry News 12-20-25
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The Flipboard magazine "Liquor Industry News 12-20-25," curated by Mark Lenzi of The Wonderful World of Wine, provides a roundup of recent trends, regulatory updates, and consumer insights in the beverage alcohol sector.
Based on the latest curation for this date, here are the key highlights and stories featured:
Market Trends & Consumer Behavior
- The "Premiumization" Shift: Despite economic pressures, there is a continued focus on premium spirits, though some categories are seeing a "normalization" after the post-pandemic boom.
- Low-and-No Alcohol Momentum: Articles highlight the continued rise of the non-alcoholic (NA) segment, particularly as consumers prepare for "Dry January." There is a focus on high-quality NA spirits that mimic the mouthfeel of traditional liquor.
- Gen Z Drinking Habits: Insights into how younger legal-drinking-age consumers are prioritizing "better-for-you" ingredients, transparency in labeling, and unique flavor profiles over traditional brand loyalty.
Wine Industry Updates
- White Wine Dominance: A notable trend shows white and rosé wines outperforming reds in several global markets, driven by a consumer preference for lighter, "chillable" styles.
- Sustainability in Packaging: Coverage of new alternative packaging methods beyond the traditional glass bottle, aimed at reducing the industry's carbon footprint.
Spirits & Cocktails
- Tequila’s Staying Power: Reports indicate that Tequila and Mezcal continue to gain market share in the US, with a particular interest in "Cristalino" and aged expressions.
- Ready-to-Drink (RTD) Evolution: The magazine features news on the "next generation" of RTDs—moving from simple malt-based seltzers to high-end, spirit-based canned cocktails.
Regulatory & Industry News
- Legislative Watch: Updates on potential tax changes or shipping regulations in various US states that could affect how consumers purchase wine and spirits online.
- Industry Awards: Recognition of top-performing brands and "Winery of the Year" announcements for the 2025-2026 season.
About the Curator: Mark Lenzi is a Certified Specialist of Wine (CSW) and Spirits (CSS). He regularly curates these industry "magazines" to help professionals and enthusiasts stay informed about the rapidly changing alcohol landscape.
CSW,CSS,CWAS,FWS,IWS,SWS,IWM
Mark C Lenzi CSW,CSS,CWAS,FWS,IWS,SWS,IWM owner of Franklin Liquors, is a Certified Specialist of Wine (CSW) and Spirits( CSS) by the Society of Wine Educators. The first in MA to hold a California Wine Appellation Specialist (CWAS) title from the San Francisco Wine School. French Wine Scholar(FWS)/instructor, Spanish Wine Scholar (SWS) and Italian Wine Scholar (IWS) by the Wine Scholar Guild. Italian Wine Specialist (IWS) by the North American Sommelier Association. Oregon Wine Expert (OWE) by the Napa Valley Wine Academy, Italian Wine Maestro (IWM) Vinitaly International (First USA Class), AFNA™ Wine Certified. Whiskey Diploma Journeyman Whiskey Taster from Whiskey University
Franklin Liquors is a family-owned vintage 1978. https://www.franklinliquors.com/
Founder of the Franklin Wine Club https://www.meetup.com/franklin-wine-club/
Liquor Industry News 12-19-25
