The position of wine and how it ranks in the beverage world has, at least for the past few years, been up in the air. Many critics and naysayers have warned that traditional wine is making an exit.

However, the future of wine is looking fantastic and is quickly becoming the beverage of choice, especially for Millennials. According to market research “37% of Boomers report drinking wine at least once a month. 33% of Millennials (those born between 1981 and 1996) report the same thing.” The survey concludes that, based on respondents, wine threatens to displace traditional beer and cocktails as the drink of choice in the Millennial age category.

Those born in the 80’s, such as myself, see wine as more of a social experience and experiment. It is not uncommon to see young people in droves at a vineyard or barrel tasting event and their curiosity and demand for wine has paved the way for wine bar chains such as VinoVolo and CRú. The answer to the question of why this trend continues is simple in my mind; wine is not only becoming more sophisticated, but it is becoming more affordable as well. Breadth of availability, the social media craze, and diversification of blends by wineries has added up to the perfect recipe for success.

Millennials are also willing to pay more for their wine. The survey found that Boomers average $19 per bottle. The 29 year old Millennial, however, is more inclined to spend, on average, $27. Moreover, more than half of Millennials say they buy wine weekly, ever incorporating into their social time.

I think wine’s future is very bright and that there are some exciting times ahead thanks to our young, sophisticated wine explores. #cheerstothemoment