Spirits lift

Spirits lift

New Zealanders are drinking more spirits in preference to traditional beverages.

Statistics New Zealand’s figures for 2008 show the volume growth of spirits increased for the sixth successive year.

Total spirits volumes increased to 8 million litres, an increase of 5.5 per cent in 2008 over 2007 and now account for 25 per cent of the total consumption of alcohol per capita. Beer consumption had 43 per cent market share and wine 32 per cent.

New Zealanders taste for spirits has been driven by a number of factors including widespread appeal, versatility, mixability, range of flavours and price points to suit all budgets, says Thomas Chin, Chief Executive of the Distilled Spirits Association of New Zealand.

“Spirits are a small and affordable luxury adding zest to social occasions in all settings. In that role, spirits underpin the tourism, entertainment and hospitality industries,” Mr Chin says.

Whisky remains New Zealanders favourite tipple followed by Vodka, Gin and Rum.

ENDS

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