French drinking habits have changed so considerably that the majority of the population order an alcoholic drink less than once a week.
A survey showed that only 44% admitted to ordering a drink in a bar, café or restaurant once a week. When they do, they often chose an expensive drink, going for quality instead of quantity. French drink experts have termed this “premiumisation”.
Sparkling water and soft drinks, such as Coca-Cola with a twist of lemon, have taken top spot for many. It was not long ago that wine accompanied every meal.
Some 20% said they do not ever drink alcohol.
Only 12% of French people order an alcoholic drink every day, and most typically these are men over the age of 60.
According to the study, French households bought on average 73.2 litres of alcohol in 2014 whereas this was 80.7 litres in 2007. But their spending was greater - €327 last year compared to €314 in 2007.
Wine remains the favourite over beer and spirits, with reds, whites and rosés all popular. But the cheap vin de table now comes out mostly for parties.
But a survey remains a survey. While it is likely to indicate a growing trend, the country has a problem with binge drinking among young people. The abuse of alcohol is still one of the mean causes of hospitalisation, with more than half a million such admissions last year.
