Spier Introduces Lower-Alcohol 5.5% Wine Range
Stellenbosch winery, Spier, has launched a new lower-alcohol wine range that is sure to get health-conscious wine lovers excited. With less than 50% of the alcohol and kilojoules than Spier wines of the same varietal (or a regular table with 13.5% alcohol), this new range offers a healthier alternative for wine drinkers to enjoy this summer.
The new Spier 5.5% wine range takes its name after the alcohol percentage of the wine, and was specially developed to meet the needs of a growing number of wine lovers who don’t want to sacrifice a glass of good wine while following a healthier lifestyle.
“Our winemaking team is constantly finding ways to innovate responsibly, fulfilling the evolving needs of our customers,” explains Spier’s Cellar Master, Frans Smit. “After much careful development, consideration and finessing, we’ve found a way to maintain the premium, layered wines our customers have come to expect from Spier. At only 36 calories per 100ml, we are confident that the Spier 5.5% wines will satisfy wine lovers’ tastebuds with the added benefit of considerably lower alcohol and kilojoules.”
Light and fruity, Spier 5.5% is ideal as a refreshing poolside or picnic accompaniment. These fun-loving wines have a responsible side too: the lower ABV makes it an ideal choice for a business lunch or busy day. The range includes a Chenin Blanc as well as a Shiraz varietal for wine lovers to enjoy.
Accoring to Spier, the Spier 5.5%’s lower alcohol journey began in the vineyard. Specific sites with light, sandy soil were chosen, and harvest was timed perfectly so that grapes were picked at a lower sugar level and natural acidity. Both these approaches naturally result in lower alcohol wines.
During the fermentation process at Spier’s cellar, a portion of the alcohol was removed at a low temperature in a vacuum by using the latest spinning cone technology. This gentle process reduced the alcohol while preserving the flavours and aromatics of the wine. Following this, fermentation was completed with the remaining natural sugar and nutrients. The result? A truly satisfying taste with lower kilojoules and alcohol.
About the wines
Spier 5.5% Chenin Blanc:
This unwooded Chenin Blanc offers the characteristic flavours and complexity that the varietal is known for. Naturally lighter in style, it is crisp and fruity, with flavours of pear and apple, and hints of litchi. Enjoy it chilled on its own or with a light summer salad. The wine contains 149kJ per 100ml and 36kCal per 100ml.
Spier 5.5% Shiraz:
Full of flavour and complexity, this unwooded and naturally light Shiraz has a juicy layering of subtle spice, red fruit and mulberry. It’s great on its own or with grilled meat and seasonal vegetables. With just 153kJ per 100ml, this wine is a divine summer sipper.
The Spier 5.5% wines are available from R65.00 – R75.00 from the Spier tasting room as well as from selected liquor outlets online and in-store.