the lowdown

Toast picks: low-alcohol choices

Looking for good flavour without the high alcohol kick? Here are some options that we think fit the bill perfectly

Brancott Estate Flight Sauvignon Blanc 

This lower alcohol wine range took flight in summer 2012. Even before its official release the sauvignon blanc snapped up gold at the 2012 New Zealand International Wine Show and set the tone for the rest of the range. 

The Brancott Estate team harvests the grapes early to ensure lower sugar levels, resulting in lower alcohol levels during fermentation. Their understanding of the grapes’ flavour profile means they can achieve delicious, full-flavoured wines that are naturally lighter. 

The Doctors Riesling 

Alternative winemaking techniques and select parcels of fruit are behind The Doctors’ range, and the riesling has achieved cult-like status on the New Zealand wine scene. With notes of granny smith apple, lime sherbet and apricot, this wine clocks in at just 8.5% due to early harvest and cool, slow ferment.

Steinlager Mid 

Steinlager Mid is a full flavour brew but with half the strength. Perfect with spicy dishes and fish dishes, particularly salmon.

Mac’s Mid Vicious

Mac’s Mid Vicious is a pale ale with attitude – a strong, hoppy flavour with just 2.5% ABV. It’s a beer with more taste than you’ll bargain for. 

Export Citrus

This sensational beer offers drinkers something completely different to anything they have tried before, and even took away a Grande Gold at the Monde Selection in 2014. It’s a blend of DB Export Beer and natural lemon juice with no added preservatives. At 2% alcohol it’s the ideal after-work thirst-quencher. 
 

Our Picks