02 Aug 2023
This week I’ve been preparing myself for the UK alcohol duty changes coming into effect from 1st August 2023.
Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know – for still wine with alcohol content between 11.5% and 14.5%, the price for still wine falling within this alcohol range will see an increase of 44p plus VAT per bottle (53p in total). This means the duty rate will go up from £2.23 to £2.69 plus VAT.
Thankfully the news is more positive for sparkling wine enthusiasts and those seeking lower alcohol options. Duty charges for sparkling wines and still wines with less than 11.5% ABV will be reduced.
For instance, wine with 10% ABV will experience a 9p decrease in duty, bringing it down to £2.14 per 75cl bottle.
With these changes approaching, it’s an opportune time to stock up your wine rack and take advantage of the current rates before they adjust in August. Similar to interest rate changes in mortgages and savings, we’re likely to see the duty increases before we experience the benefits of the reductions.
So, plan ahead and enjoy the savings while you can!
This week I’m being optimistic in thinking summer weather is on its way as I’m recommending two summer sizzlers from Laithwaites, one which also eases us into lower ABV drinking!
Laithwaites Wine is a family-owned business founded in 1969 by Tony Laithwaite, which takes immense pride in curating a diverse selection of wines from around the world. With a dedicated wine team that samples over 40,000 wines annually, Laithwaites ensures that only the finest wines make their way to customers.
First up is the lower alcohol but full flavoured Maria Fadista 2022 – Vinho de Portugal RRP £9.99 (£8.99 Mix 12).
Hailing from the scenic vineyards of Vinho Verde, this exquisite Portuguese white wine is a blend of two indigenous grape varieties – the lemony-fresh, aromatic Loureiro grape, and the smooth stone fruit notes of Trajadura.
Maria Fadista 2022 captures the essence of Vinho Verde, enticing your taste buds with its gentle spritz that imparts a delightful citrusy zing.
At just 8.5% ABV, it offers a mindful drinking experience without compromising on flavour and quality, making it an ideal choice for those seeking wines with slightly lower alcohol levels.
With its refreshing and enticing flavours, this wine is a perfect companion for a summery lunch, an aperitif, or a delightful pairing with sushi or spiced dhal.
An excellent choice if you wish to embrace the trend of mindful wine choices without compromising on maximum flavour.
Next up is Cia’ Ludo Trebbiano 2022 RRP £11.99 RRP (£8.99 Mix 12).
Amidst the scintillating beauty of the sun reflecting off the clear-blue Adriatic Sea, with vine-covered hills stretching into the horizon and majestic snow-capped mountains in the backdrop, lies the inspiration for Cia’ Ludo Trebbiano 2022. This cool and crisp Italian white wine, hailing from the esteemed winemaker Ludovica Crugnale, celebrates her beloved homeland, Abruzzo.
Ludovica, affectionately known as Ludo by the locals, is a true embodiment of the region’s spirit.
With her deep connections to the area’s growers and innate ability to seek out the ripest and freshest Trebbiano grapes, Ludo’s expertise shines through in every bottle.
Picture her gracefully gliding on her bike along the scenic coastal path, as the growers call out “Cia’ Ludo” (“Hi Ludo” in the local dialect) – a heartwarming tribute that befits this exceptional wine bearing her name.
This straw-yellow wine is made exclusively from 100% Trebbiano grapes sourced from Chieti province, where the vines thrive under the nurturing shelter of mountains, invigorating air currents, and abundant sunshine.
For those of you interested in the winemaking process, this one includes cold maceration of the crushed grapes to extract delightful flavours and enticing aromas from the skins. Fermentation then takes place in stainless steel vats at controlled temperatures, resulting in a wine that captivates with its aromas of lemon, lime, stone fruits, nectarine, and orange blossom.
On the palate, this wine is full of vibrant citrus flavours, offering a delightful weight and a refreshingly clean finish. Its elegant floral notes make it a perfect accompaniment to fish and white meat dishes.
Mrs M suggested we paired this with pan fried seabass, laid on a bed of roasted vegetables.
So, whether you’re indulging in the Trebbiano beauty of Cia’ Ludo or savouring the enchanting flavours of Maria Fadista, be sure to stock up those wine racks before the duty hike!
