U.S. Fine Diners are Changing, But Not their Enthusiasm for Fine Wine

In a previous post, the consultancy firm, Restaurant Rx, described the Changing Face of U.S. Fine Diners: Upscale diners are signalling they want more exotic, international cuisine delivered in a more casual, more intimate atmosphere. In this study of 1600 U.S. fine diners, only a minority wanted the white linen tablecloths, fine crystal and filet mignon - signatures of yesteryear's fine dining establishments.

However, when it comes to wine, as the French phrase goes, 'Plus ca change, plus c'est la meme chose': Wine and Fine Dining are still close brethren and nothing- apparently even a deep recession - can part them.

As the figure shows, even in these recessionary times, many fine diners, in describing their recent activities, say they are still purchasing wine for their collections (34%) and, what's more, purchasing >$50 bottles of wine (27%). Among those with higher incomes (>$200K HHI/year), nearly half are engaging in these activities.

Seems to me like good news for sommeliers!

(Particularly as not many fine diners [<2%] are apparently building their own wine cellars at home.)