
The U.S. wine market continued to show strength in 2016, growing 2.4% to 341.1 million 9-liter cases, led by a 6.6% upsurge in the consumption of sparkling wines, according to the Beverage Information Group’s 2017 Wine Handbook. Domestic wines accounted for 76.8% of the wine category, up slightly from last year. Consumers continued to seek premium and high-end brands at home and on-premise. Wines under $10 weakened in sales, while the $10 to $20 range thrived. The champagne and sparkling wine category grew for its 15th consecutive year to 22.1 million 9-liter cases, a 7.8% increase. Domestic sparkling wine reached 11.9 million 9-liter cases resulting in a 5.2% increase in volume, continuing an 11-year growth streak.