Australia’s wine scene just made headlines with an exciting breakthrough from Treasury Wine Estates, the company behind household names like Penfolds, Squealing Pig, Pepperjack, Matua and Lindeman’s.
They’ve developed a new way to create low or no alcohol wine that keeps the taste, aroma and mouthfeel you’d expect from a classic bottle. The technique? Low temperature distillation. It’s a process that gently removes alcohol without stripping away flavour, opening the door to a new generation of non-alc wines made with modern drinkers in mind.
This $15 million innovation project has been years in the making, and the results are already turning heads.
Why It Matters for Wine Lovers
Interest in low and zero alcohol options is booming. Health-conscious drinkers are seeking better choices without sacrificing quality. Treasury Wine Estates saw that shift early and decided to lead from the front with science-backed innovation that enhances the entire drinking experience.
Instead of compromising on taste, their wines keep the delicate notes that make each varietal distinct. According to the team, up to 58% of consumers are actively trying to reduce their alcohol intake, but they still want something that feels special and tastes authentic.
What Makes This Technique Different?
Traditional alcohol removal methods can affect the body and complexity of wine. The low temperature distillation method developed by Treasury Wine Estates helps lock in flavour while lowering alcohol content. It’s a delicate balance of temperature control and timing, giving winemakers more precision and flexibility.
And for the consumer, that means a glass of Squealing Pig Sauvignon Blanc Zero still tastes like Sauvignon Blanc. Crisp. Balanced. Vibrant. But without the alcohol.
What People Are Saying
In a recent 9 News segment, locals from the Barossa Valley put this new style to the test. The feedback?
“That’s pretty good”
“You wouldn’t even know it’s non-alcoholic”
“It’s quite lovely and something I’d happily drink again”
Many praised how it didn’t feel overly sweet or diluted. Others mentioned how it fits into their lifestyle goals, especially for anyone watching alcohol intake for health or work reasons.
What’s Next for Treasury Wine Estates?
This is just the beginning. Treasury Wine Estates has signalled that more low and no alcohol options are in development across their popular ranges. That includes white, red and rosé varieties, all benefiting from this advanced technique.
As demand grows, we’ll likely see a wider range of flavour-forward, lower-alcohol wines from some of the most recognisable Australian brands.
What This Means for Mindful Drinking
This innovation is another big step forward for people who want choice. Whether you're cutting back on alcohol, expecting a baby, planning a work lunch or just curious about new wine experiences — the future of wine now includes more options than ever.
And with high-quality winemakers like Treasury Wine Estates backing this shift, the possibilities are only going to get better.
Watch the Innovation in Action
Frequently Asked Questions
What is low temperature distillation in winemaking?
It’s a method of removing alcohol from wine at lower heat levels than traditional approaches. This helps preserve the wine’s original aroma, flavour and texture.
Is this process used in all non-alcoholic wines?
No, this method is unique to the Treasury Wine Estates innovation project. Different producers use different techniques. This approach stands out for its ability to retain wine’s complexity and character.
Will more products be available soon?
Yes. Treasury Wine Estates has confirmed more varieties are on the way across their full brand portfolio. You can expect to see new zero and low alcohol options rolled out gradually.
Does the wine still taste the same?
Early testers say yes. From Sauvignon Blanc to rosé styles, the feedback has been that these wines hold up on flavour, feel and aroma — just without the alcohol.
Can I buy these wines now?
Some products like Squealing Pig Sauvignon Blanc Zero are starting to hit the market. Craftzero doesn’t currently stock these lines, but we’re watching the space closely. As always, we’ll keep offering the best in non-alcoholic wine from other premium producers.
