New Zealand's Ara Wines claims a first with UK launch of alcohol-free Marlborough Sauvignon

New Zealand producer Ara Wines has launched what it claims is the first alcohol-free Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc into the UK market.

The company has described Ara Zero as a landmark innovation, enabling UK consumers to drink Sauvignon Blanc while slashing both their alcohol and calorie intake.

The wine is produced using spinning cone technology, which removes the alcohol and fragrance, said the company’s chief winemaker Duncan  Shouler. When the alcohol has been removed, the distinctive aroma unique to Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc is then added back.

Containing no more than 0.5% alcohol by volume, the wine contains 80% fewer calories than the full-strength variety. It comes with a recommended retail price of £8, which is higher than rival products, but the winery said this reflected the premium quality of the fruit and the “rigorous production standards”.

“From the rise of mindful drinking to people looking for a lighter, refreshing drink in the evening after an exercise class, the low and no-alcohol trend is on the cusp of mainstream,” said Shouler. “We are excited about this innovation and what it means for our export markets. To be able to bring Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc lovers around the world a 0% version of their favourite varietal is huge,” he said.