No-and-low-alcohol research trial subsidies for SA wine business
Thursday 12 December 2024 SARDI
South Australia is proudly leading the way with the world's first no-and-low-alcohol (NOLO) trial-scale research facility located at the University of Adelaide's Waite Campus in Adelaide.
With consumer demand for 'no alcohol' wine products growing around the world, now is the time for SA wine businesses to innovate and diversify, to secure valuable market share within the category.
Moderation is a widespread trend leading to reduced alcohol consumption, with recent studies by the University of Adelaide indicating up to 20% of regular wine drinkers report reduced alcohol intake by choosing lower alcohol options or non-alcoholic drinks on occasions.
The global NOLO wine market is predicated to grow by an average of 6% from 2023 to 2027, compared with the forecast decline of 2% for full-strength wine products.
The innovative trial-scale research facility presents an opportunity for South Australia's wine business to trial small-scale product development research with reduced risk during the experimental phase.
The facility allows businesses and researchers to test products using as little as 150 litres – far less than commercial scale equipment which has a minimum of 10,000 litres.
The centrepieces of the facility are the FlavourTech spinning cone column and Koch Relco Reverse Osmosis technologies. Unlike traditional methods that involve high-temperature alcohol removal, which are known to adversely affect flavour, both the spinning cone column and RO unit allow alcohol removal at lower temperatures, minimising the impact on flavour.
A barrier to enjoying no alcohol wines for many consumers has been the difference in taste. When alcohol is removed from wine, it can significantly alter the flavour profile. This research aims to assist producers in creating higher quality products that retain flavour, and make it difficult to pick the difference.
A range of packaging options are available to businesses, including cans, 375 ml glass, and 750 ml glass.
Thanks to investment from the Government of South Australia, through the Department of Primary Industries and Regions, South Australian businesses currently have priority access to the facility at substantially subsidised rates of up to 15 days' access.
The trial-scale research facility project is a partnership between the University of Adelaide, the Department of Primary Industries and Regions, and the Australian Wine Research Institute.
To learn more and register your interest, see No and low (NOLO) alcohol wine or contact:
John Gledhill – Winemaker, WIC Winemaking Services
Phone: 0429 140 377
Email: john.gledhill@awri.com.au