Issue link: http://winesandvines.uberflip.com/i/629061
METRICS February 2016 WINES&VINES 13 Value rising faster than volume indicates a higher average price per bottle, and indeed the domestic bottle price rose 22 cents to $6.27, according to IRI. The data continued to show "premiumiza- tion," the term that's come to symbolize con- sumers moving up to brands in higher price segments. For example, the lowest three IRI price segments for domestic wine either shrank in sales value or grew by less than 3%, while wine sales in the four segments priced $8 per bottle or higher grew at rates ranging from 11% to 23%. Consumer tastes kept turning toward lighter whites and sparkling wine in 2015. It was a growth year for all but one of the seven top- selling varietals and types in the IRI channel. Looking at domestic and imported wines together, sparkling wine became the No. 3 "varietal" in 2015, led by sales of Italian Pro- secco but also due to 11% sales growth in do- mestic sparkling wine. Sparkling wine passed Pinot Gris/Grigio in sales. Still, Pinot Gris/ Grigio expanded by 10% in value. Sauvignon Blanc surged by 17%, but from a smaller base. Merlot continued its gradual slide, down by 2%. The fastest rates of growth among leading red varietals were 14% for red blends/Meritage and 11% for Pinot Noir. —Jim Gordon Source: . Wines Vines Analytics. 52 weeks through Dec. 28, 2014, and Dec. 27, 2015. Includes domestic and imported wines, multiple-outlet and convenience stores. OFF-PREMISE SALES BY VARIETAL Chardonnay Cabernet Sauvignon Sparkling Pinot Gris Red Blends Merlot Pinot Noir Sauvignon Blanc 0 $500 $1,000 $1,500 $2,000 $ Millions n = 2015 n = 2014