Punch Taverns has responded to on trade wine decline with the launch of a new wine list designed to appeal to consumers seeking value for money and the reassurance of familiar brands.

The wine list, which launches on 11th May, includes over 200 wines, 32 of which are new and 24 priced between £3 and £4.

Highlights include Castelbello, an Italian range featuring a Catarratto, Merlot and Merlot Rose at £3.09 per bottle along with familiar favourites from Hardys, and Echo Falls to Jack Rabbit. 

Punch’s director of sales, Tim McCord, explains: “The range is very diverse, ensuring there is a solution for all our pubs - from community locals right through to our top end gastro pubs.”

“Despite a weakening of the Pound in the currency markets and the two duty increases implemented by the Chancellor in the past six months, wine still represents a great opportunity to drive additional profit and margin.  This new list is designed to offer licensees quality wines at affordable prices that appeal to their specific customer base.”

Tim concludes: “And licensees looking for some expert guidance on their wine offer can also speak to one of Punch’s eight wine consultants who are able to provide specific advice on pricing, staff training as well as wine and food matching.”

Multiple operator, Mike Staniforth, who runs four Punch sites, including the Risley Park in Derby and the Plough Inn, Normanton On Soar is looking forward to the new wine list.  He comments: “With the economic downturn, customers are thinking more carefully about how they spend their disposable income. The wine market is changing and we need a list that caters for those changes. The popular brand names and value for money prices should work well. ”