The Responsible Role Of Local Wine Merchants
By Dominic Donaldson
The Licensing Act 2003 caused a stir amongst independent wine merchants as it was said to favour larger companies. As such, a not for profit organisation was formed to help protect the interests of smaller wine companies, especially when it comes to importing wine. Although the British wine industry is growing steadily and becoming more influential on the market, the majority of wines currently in demand come from overseas. Without the protection of certain organisations, these smaller wine merchants could be at risk from closure; a fate which is befalling public houses at present.
The press have been reporting that up to 52 community pubs have been closing each week for the last six months. The closures have been blamed on the global economic crisis causing people to tighten spending on recreational activities. It seems that rather than popping to a pub on a Friday night the British public are opting to spend their hard earned cash at a local wine merchant instead. Some experts are proposing that this could in fact have a positive effect on local communities through encouraging responsible drinking practices.
Wine merchants are expected to provide responsible promotion, marketing, consumption and sale of alcohol, and as such provide a range of services other than just the sale of alcohol. There have been many Government incentives to improve the provision of information on responsible alcohol consumption. Television campaigns and town centre posters have combined to highlight the dangers of binge drinking, especially amongst the younger generations.
What some people feel is lacking is a correct attitude towards the consumption of alcohol, and as such an educational and informative approach to enjoying alcohol should be targeted. Many compare this attitude to a European perspective, where the consumption of wine is integrated into daily life from an early age, bringing with it a responsible attitude towards drinking. Achieving the same outlook is possible through the services of community wine merchants who offer wine tasting events and many years of expertise about alcohol appreciation.
Small independent wine merchants are able to form a community base to educate the public on the finer points of wine appreciation through wine tasting events. These events allow the public to sample and enjoy a wide variety of wines from around the world, and without the help of organisations that help protect the interests of these companies, these services would not be available. Helping to promote a more responsible attitude towards drinking in the UK in the future, might in turn help improve the British wine industry in the future.
About The Author
Dom Donaldson is a food and beverage expert.
Find out more about Wine Merchant services and supplies at The Wine Company.