Restaurant Wine, Issue 107 (May/June 2005)

Top 100 Wine Brands On-Premise

Exclusive Report
Restaurant Wine Top 100 Wine Brands Sold in USA Restaurants, 2004. Our third report lists the most popular wines sold in USA restaurants, ranking them based on estimated case sales in 2004 in all on on-premise establishments combined.

Two of the key findings: Australia increased its share of the Top 100 Restaurant Brands (in total case sales) by 18% in 2004, more than any other country; The top 15 wine companies in the USA (producers, marketers, importers) account for 73 of the Top 100 Brands, which in turn account for 85% of the Top 100 Brand's total volume on-premise. All 100 brands, and their estimated case sales and share of market, are included here.

Operation Profile
This restaurant company is the largest wine account in this city. After installing a full time wine director, the company's wine sales and profits increased, largely because of his efforts to buy more carefully, trim inventories, and provide value throughout the wine program's of the company's three successful restaurants. We detail what and how he has done this.

Wine Recommendations
Nearly 140 recommendations (out of 700+ tasted), from the US, Argentina, Australia, and Chile.

Some of the highlights: a range of 2003 Chardonnays, Sauvignon Blancs, and Pinot Gris/Grigios from California and Oregon; exceptional Cabernets, Pinot Noirs, Syrahs, and Zinfandels from California; an array of great new discoveries from Argentina; and excellent value red and white varietals from Australia and Chile.