Rsp: £4.99
Competition: McGuigan 50cl, Casillero del Diablo 50cl
The consumer
The smaller bottle is perfect for midweek drinking. It eliminates the temptation to drink half a regular 75cl bottle (which often results in 'challenges' the next morning). The abv and mellow flavour are also sensible and do not shout 'headache' like some of the heavy reds. At £4.99 a bottle it is a tad expensive, considering the range available in 75cl bottles. I might buy it for a midweek dinner party, though, as it lends itself to food and wine matching. Four stars (out of five)
Anna King, student, London
The demand for smaller size formats is definitely growing, and 50cl gives consumers an opportunity to trade up in quality without spending more than they intended. Opting for a tall, slim bottle rather than a mini version of a 75cl bottle is a good move. The wine itself is juicy and ripe, without being overpowering or jammy, and still bears the stamp of the sunny Australian climate. Overall good value for money, but Pernod Ricard will need to invest heavily in raising consumer awareness for this format to catch on. Four stars
Dror Nativ, wine trading manager, Spar
The Grocer
Reducing the size of the bottle and the price is a great idea. It reduces wastage, as you don't end up with that abandoned half-glass-worth lingering at the bottom of the bottle, and you can glug half a bottle on a school night without feeling guilty. The wine itself was mellow and smooth and made a fine accompaniment to red meat. Having a price point below £5 is important and I am not surprised the 50cl craze is catching on among other wine suppliers. Four stars
Anna-Marie Julyan, food and drink reporter
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