A recent survey conducted by Censuswide* for wine brand, Eisberg, found that only four in 10 of Gen Zers (those born between 1997 and 2012) have ever used a corkscrew or ice bucket, as the grab-and-go mentality takes hold.
The study also found that less than one fifth of respondents (18%) have used a decanter, which can enhance the flavours and aromas of wine.
These numbers reflect a steady decline in traditional wine practices from older generations to the youngest, echoing last year’s Lakeland survey, which revealed that just 27% of young people even own a corkscrew.
With screw-top bottles and ready-to-drink formats on the rise, the ritualistic elements of wine appreciation – uncorking, decanting and savouring – are being left behind.
This shift signals not only a change in drinking habits but also a cultural shift away from the experience of wine as something to be ceremoniously enjoyed.
The survey findings raise questions about whether the art of wine appreciation is at risk of extinction, or whether it is due for a revolution.
Where previous generations relished the careful process of selecting, opening, serving and tasting wine, today’s younger drinkers prioritise convenience and accessibility.
Dan Harwood, managing director of Eisberg’s SW Wines Europe, commented: “We’re witnessing a fascinating change in the way younger generations interact with wine.
“The time-honoured traditions of wine, from using a corkscrew to decanting, are being replaced by a grab-and-go mentality.
“While this evolution in drinking habits isn’t necessarily negative, it does suggest that a certain romance and ritual around wine could be fading.
“At Eisberg, we believe that wine – whether alcoholic or alcohol-free – should be about more than just the drink itself, it’s about the experience.”
With the rise of alcohol-free options and a growing focus on health-conscious consumption, the way people engage with wine is evolving.
However, as traditions fall away, there is a risk that the rich heritage of wine appreciation may be lost entirely.
At Hand Crafted Drinks Magazine whilst we understand that habits do change it would be a shame if the humble corkscrew did become a relic.
However, as with the rise of instant coffee potentially challenging the popularity of coffee beans and ground coffee, there’s no sign of the end of the popularity of real coffee.
As wine consumption tends to increase as people mature, it’s likely that the experience of choosing, opening and enjoying wine will be with us for a very long time to come.
*The research was conducted by Censuswide, among a sample of 2,000 general consumers. The data was collected between 05.02.25 and 07.02.2025.
Censuswide abides by and employs members of the Market Research Society and follows the MRS code of conduct which is based on the ESOMAR principles.