CHRISTMAS LIQUOR

Press, Volume CIII, Issue 30632, 24 December 1964, Page 7

CHRISTMAS LIQUOR

N.Z. Wines In Demand Stocks of wine, spirits and beer are adequate to meet the demands of Christchurch consumers over Christmas, although not all customers will be able to have their favourite brand of Scotch whisky. There is plenty of whisky available, but a shortage of some brands, mainly because shipments due from overseas have not arrived in time. Wine and spirit merchants yesterday said there was the usual Christmas demand for all classes of liquor, but there had been greater orders for wines, particularly New Zealand wines.

All classes of New Zealand wine—still, sparkling and fortified—had met with a readier sale this year, one merchant said. This demonstrated a trend which had been noticeable throughout the year—that wines were finding their way on to New Zealand tables outside special occasions, and that wine drinkers were realising that locally-made wines could match many overseas brands. There are no novelty lines meeting a demand from the merchants, although there is a good demand for gift packs and even gallon bottles of whisky. For the average New Zealander a stock of beer is a necessity for Christmas. Stocks of bottled beer are adequate to meet the expected demand and there is plenty of draught beer, but not enough kegs td go ooru not enough kegs to go round. Most hotels have their four and a half gallon kegs fully booked for Friday. Augmented bar staffs are going to be busy filling flagons on Thursday.