Naturally light wines a sommelier actually pours.
More people are drinking a little less, whether that's for health goals, a long party where you want to pace yourself, or just wanting a second glass without the next-day regret. The good news: some of the world's most delicious wines are naturally low in alcohol. Here are the ones our sommelier Michael Bottigliero reaches for.
What counts as a low-alcohol wine?
Most table wines land between about 12% and 15% alcohol by volume (ABV). For this list, "low alcohol" means roughly 12% ABV or below. Wines from cooler climates, wines picked earlier and wines with a little natural sweetness tend to land lower. Always check the label; ABV varies by producer and vintage.
Vinho Verde (Portugal)
Vinho Verde means "green wine," named for the lush region in northwest Portugal where it's made, not the color. It's light, zesty and often lightly spritzy, and it's one of the best-value whites you can buy.
Michael's picks: Aveleda (9.5% ABV) and Casal Garcia (10% ABV)
Beaujolais-Villages (France)
Looking for a lighter red? Beaujolais, made from the Gamay grape, is juicy, low in tannin and great slightly chilled.
Michael's pick: Georges Duboeuf Beaujolais-Villages (12.3% ABV)
German Riesling (Kabinett)
Kabinett is the lightest category of German Riesling: bright acidity, a touch of sweetness and often under 10% ABV. One of the most food-friendly wines in the world, especially with spicy food.
Moscato d'Asti (Italy)
Gently sparkling, peachy and floral, and usually around 5% to 5.5% ABV. A great brunch or dessert wine.
Brachetto d'Acqui (Italy)
The red-wine version of the Moscato idea: lightly sparkling, with strawberry and rose notes and low alcohol. Fantastic with chocolate.
Bugey-Cerdon (France)
A hidden gem from eastern France: a pink, lightly sweet sparkling wine made from Gamay and Poulsard, typically well under 10% ABV. A crowd-pleaser at parties.
What about alcohol-free wine?
Non-alcoholic wines have come a long way. Two Michael actually serves:
Giesen non-alcoholic Sauvignon Blanc (New Zealand). All the citrus and passion fruit you expect from Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc.
Wander + Found non-alcoholic Pinot Noir (now sold as La Kaya). A light, fruity red in a can, easy to bring to a party.
And if you'd rather skip wine altogether, our mocktail tasting kits are a fun way to include everyone.
Tips for drinking lighter at a party
Use smaller pours. A tasting pour is about 2 ounces, versus 5 for a standard glass.
Alternate every glass with water.
Start the night with sparkling or a light white and save the bigger wines for later.
Serve food. A cheese and charcuterie board slows everything down.
Planning a tasting where not everyone drinks?
Michael regularly builds tastings with low-alcohol and non-alcoholic options so every guest can join in. Learn more about our in-home wine tastings and corporate events.
Booking holiday parties now. December dates fill fast. Bring Michael to your office holiday party, host an in-home tasting in Metro Detroit or Chicago, or ship virtual kits to a remote team.
