Barefoot Strawberry Wine's Varying ABV
The alcohol by volume (ABV) of Barefoot strawberry wine is not a single, fixed number across all products. Instead, it depends on the specific product line and bottle size. For the widely available 750ml bottle of Barefoot Strawberry Fruitscato, the ABV is typically 7.5%. However, the larger 1.5L magnum bottle of Barefoot Strawberry Fruitscato or Moscato has frequently been listed at a lower ABV of 6.5%. This difference is significant for consumers tracking their alcohol intake and for understanding the product's overall flavor profile, as lower ABV often correlates with a sweeter taste.
Why the Alcohol Percentage Changes
There are several reasons for the variation in alcohol content, which is a common practice in winemaking, particularly for fruit-flavored or sweet wines. The final ABV is a result of the fermentation process, where yeast converts sugar into alcohol. For sweeter wines like Barefoot's Fruitscato, the fermentation is often stopped early to leave a higher amount of residual sugar. By controlling this process, winemakers can manipulate the balance between sweetness and alcohol content. Slight recipe adjustments between batches or package sizes can also lead to minor differences. It's essential to always check the bottle's label for the most accurate and up-to-date information on the specific product you are buying.
Understanding Fruitscato vs. Moscato
The product is most commonly known as Barefoot Strawberry Fruitscato. It is a blend that uses Moscato wine as its base, to which natural strawberry flavors are added. This distinguishes it from a pure Moscato wine, which relies solely on the natural characteristics of the Muscat grape. The addition of fruit flavoring allows for a more pronounced and consistent strawberry taste, enhancing its appeal as a fun, sweet, and approachable wine. The Fruitscato line, which includes other flavors like peach and blueberry, is designed for a sweeter, more fruit-forward taste experience compared to Barefoot's more traditional varietals.
Comparing Barefoot's Strawberry Offerings
The table below outlines the key differences and characteristics of the various Barefoot strawberry wine versions based on available data. As noted, checking the specific bottle is the best way to confirm details.
| Feature | Barefoot Strawberry Fruitscato (750ml) | Barefoot Strawberry Fruitscato (1.5L) | Barefoot Pink Moscato (for comparison) |
|---|---|---|---|
| ABV | ~7.5% | ~6.5% | ~9.0% |
| Tasting Notes | Juicy, ripe strawberries, light body, and a sweet finish | Very similar profile, but potentially slightly less sweet due to lower ABV | Peach, strawberry, citrus; slightly less overtly sweet and more floral |
| Best Served | Chilled, perfect for casual sipping or with desserts | Chilled, great for sharing at parties or gatherings | Chilled, excellent with desserts or as an aperitif |
| Base Wine | Moscato blend | Moscato blend | Moscato |
What the ABV Means for Taste and Enjoyment
The ABV, or alcohol by volume, significantly impacts the perception of a wine's taste. A lower ABV, like the 6.5-7.5% found in Barefoot's Strawberry Fruitscato, means less alcohol is present to balance the sugar. This results in a wine that tastes sweeter and is often described as lighter and easier to drink. This is a deliberate choice for this product, positioning it as a dessert wine or a casual, refreshing beverage rather than a complex table wine. For those new to wine or who prefer sweeter drinks, this makes the Barefoot Fruitscato very approachable and enjoyable. The lower alcohol content also means it can be consumed more casually than a full-bodied red or white wine.
Food Pairings for Barefoot Strawberry Wine
The sweet, fruity profile of Barefoot Strawberry Fruitscato makes it incredibly versatile for food pairing, especially with items that complement or contrast its sweetness. Suggested pairings include:
- Desserts: Creamy cheesecakes, fresh fruit salads, or vanilla ice cream pair well with the wine's strawberry notes.
- Spicy Cuisine: The sweetness can provide a cooling contrast to spicy dishes, such as Thai curries or other Asian-inspired foods.
- Appetizers: Artisanal cheese boards, especially with soft cheeses, or simple fruit platters work well as a starter.
Conclusion
To answer the question, what percent alcohol is Barefoot strawberry wine, requires specifying the product and size. The 750ml bottle of Barefoot Strawberry Fruitscato is 7.5% ABV, while the 1.5L bottle is typically 6.5% ABV. This lower alcohol content is a feature, not a bug, making it a delightfully sweet, fruit-forward, and highly accessible wine. Its flavor profile is a conscious effort to blend Moscato with natural strawberry essences, making it a perfect casual sipper or dessert companion. For the best experience, be sure to serve it chilled and check the label on your specific bottle for the most accurate alcohol information. For more information on their various products, you can visit the official Barefoot wine website [www.barefootwine.com].
