U.S. Wines Grow 6% Off-Premise in October

(Wines&Vines) - Off-premise sales of domestic wines this month dipped from their September level but surpassed October 2012 by 6%, according to IRI, the Chicago-based market research firm. Sales during the 52 weeks ending in October rose 7% compared to a year earlier.

Domestic table wine and sparkling wine grew at virtually the same rate, although table wine was 22 times larger in value. Table wine totaled $504 million in October, compared to sparkling wine at $23 million in the U.S. food, drug, liquor and convenience stores tallied by IRI.

Convenience sales fastest

Convenience stores were the fastest growing channel for off-premise wine sales, accounting for $44 million in domestic table wine in October. This number grew 25% compared to October 2012, and was faster than the 52-week growth rate of 21%.

The most popular varietal or wine type in convenience stores during the past year was the same as in other stores: Chardonnay, with a 26% share of sales. However, Pinot Grigio/Gris was second in value with a 13% share, while it is third in other stores. Cabernet Sauvignon is No. 3 in convenience stores, but No. 2 in other off-premise outlets.

Barefoot, Sutter Home and Yellow Tail rank first, second and third in sales by brand at convenience stores. Kendall-Jackson Vintners Reserve is the highest-priced brand—averaging $14.36 per bottle—among the top 20.