Gov to allow more flexibility on alcohol measures

The government has announced plans to introduce a new law that will allow pubs, restaurants and hotels to sell wine in smaller measures and beer and cider in two-thirds of a pint size glasses.

Under the proposals put forward by Science and Innovation minister Lord Drayson today, wine measures below 75ml will be deregulated and beer will be available in a wider range of sizes than currently allowed, giving more flexibility to licensed businesses, especially those offering wine flights with tasting menus or beers in a range of strengths.

Jeremy Beadles, chief executive of the Wine & Spirit Trade Association​, who has lobbied for the changes, said: "This flexibility will give consumers the chance to sample small measures of the huge variety of wines out there, letting them broaden their knowledge and taste everything from the finest and rarest to the most innovative and experimental."

The move was also welcomed by the British Beer & Pub Association​, who said it was more in step with today's drinking trends.

"While the pint of beer remains a great British icon, a wider choice is better suited to today’s tastes and lifestyles. As a lower strength drink with a wide variety of styles, tastes and flavours beer will now also be enjoyed in a richer range of measures and glass styles," said chief executive Brigid Simmonds.

Industry views were put forward in the National Measurement Office’s Consultation on specified quantities – non pre-packages and food information. Drayson said the proposals, which also suggest that brandy should be sold in 25ml and 35ml quantities and that fortified wines sold in 50ml and 70ml measures, will be put forward by the government to be turned into legislation 'at the first available opportunity'.