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China's Generation Z: A new era in wine consumption

vinetur.com by 21/03/2024  

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In a world where the west's Generation Z might be reaching for a hard seltzer or craft beer over a glass of wine, their counterparts in China are enthusiastically swirling, sniffing, and sipping their way into the wine scene, proving that trends are far from universal. China's Gen Z, a formidable group estimated at 260 million strong, is not just embracing wine; they're reshaping its culture and market within the world's most populous country.

China's Gen Z has grown up in a unique socio-economic environment, characterized by rapid technological advancement, strong economic growth followed by uncertainties, and a one-child policy that has influenced their perspectives and consumption habits. This generation is marked by its high online presence, with studies suggesting they spend anywhere from three to over six hours daily on the internet, leveraging it to explore and purchase wines among other interests.

Unlike their predecessors or their western counterparts, Chinese Gen Zers display a striking open-mindedness toward wine. They exhibit less concern for prestige and more for pleasure and discovery, welcoming a diverse range of wines from across the globe as well as locally produced labels. This curiosity drives them towards exploring everything from traditional reds and whites to more unconventional options like orange wines, natural wines, and even tea-infused variants.

The rise of e-commerce platforms and social media has played a significant role in this shift. Platforms like Douyin (China's TikTok) have not only become key players in alcohol sales, which soared to $2.8 billion in 2022, but also spaces where wine culture can be shared and explored. Through these platforms, Gen Z consumers engage with a plethora of content about wine, from educational videos to influencer recommendations, which has significantly influenced their buying habits and preferences.

This generation's approach to wine is also reflected in their consumption habits and the places they frequent. The popularity of wine bars and food and drink festivals among Gen Zers indicates a desire for social experiences centered around wine. These preferences suggest a shift from viewing wine as a status symbol to a means of enjoyment and exploration.

Furthermore, the concept of "guochao," or national pride in Chinese products, has extended to the wine industry. This has benefitted local producers who have struggled to compete with imported wines despite significant improvements in quality. Gen Z's openness to trying different wines includes a growing interest in local varieties, which aligns with their broader interest in supporting home-grown brands across various sectors.

China's wine industry, therefore, stands at a fascinating crossroads, influenced by a generation that values diversity, quality, and the stories behind what they consume. As Gen Z continues to carve out its space in the wine world, they're not just changing how wine is consumed; they're redefining the culture surrounding it, highlighting a broader trend of seeking authenticity, sustainability, and enjoyment in consumption.

This evolution in the Chinese wine market underscores a broader global trend where younger generations are challenging traditional norms and expectations around wine. As this demographic continues to mature, their influence is likely to extend even further, potentially setting new standards for how wine is produced, marketed, and enjoyed worldwide.