Controlling the highs and the lows of alcohol in wine

Abstract

Amid a continuing intense public health debate about harmful alcohol consumption, taking control of the alcohol concentration in wine has become a priority for the wine sector worldwide. Despite a growing body of evidence indicating the health benefits of responsible, light to moderate wine consumption, and the generally healthy pattern of wine consumption, wine is still much criticised in these debates. Over the past two decades the average worldwide alcohol concentration of wine has risen. In contrast, consumer studies show an increasing preference for lower-alcohol wines. The current challenge for the wine sector is how to manage best the ‘dark side’ of alcohol worldwide and the ‘bright’ side of wine and society. This book examines the struggle that goes into monitoring the highs and lows of alcohol in wine.