A glass a day keeps the doctor away? Consumers believe wine can be good for your health

Chicago (November 18, 2010) – Health experts have long touted the health benefits of antioxidant-rich red wine and recent research even suggests that light wine consumption (1-2 glasses a week) is no longer off limits for pregnant women. This holiday season consumers are sure to be lifting their glasses without guilt as Mintel research found that 85% of imbibers believe drinking wine in moderation can be good for your overall health.

Additionally, 87% of wine drinkers believe red wine in moderation can be good for your heart, compared to the almost half (44%) who believe the same about white wine. Furthermore, 74% of wine drinkers agree with the statement that drinking wine in moderation is better for your health than drinking beer in moderation.

“Wine, especially red wine, has always enjoyed a healthy halo due to the suggested benefits of antioxidants,”notes Garima Goel Lal, senior analyst at Mintel. ” consumer belief that wine can be good for your overall health boosts wine ratings compared to beer and spirits, and aligns with the consumer trend toward eating and drinking healthily. “

Consumers are also more likely to drink wine during the holiday season. Sixty-six percent of wine drinkers say they frequently drink wine on holidays and special occasions at home, compared to 22% who say they frequently drink wine at bars and 18% who say they drink wine at restaurants without a meal.

“Wine consumption increases around the holidays, as does the average amount spent on a bottle,” adds Garima Goel Lal. “The average amount spent for a special occasion or holiday party is about $26.71 per bottle, but the spending drops by roughly $4 per bottle when wine consumers drink wine at a restaurant or nightclub. “

Mintel research also uncovered how customers choose their wine. Fifty-nine percent of wine drinkers say they stick to the type they know or like (Chardonnay, Merlot, Zinfandel, etc.), while 26% say they decide after an in-store sampling. Meanwhile, 35% say their decision is based mainly on price.

refers to research published in the Journal of Epidemiology & Community Health, October 2010