23rd December, 2016
Two days to Christmas, some wine sellers in Lagos metropolis said they were enthused by the high patronage.
The traders told NAN in Lagos on Friday that in spite of the recession and attendant high price of various alcohol brands, patronage of wine sellers had increased ahead of Yuletide.
They attributed the increased demand for champagne, wine, vodka and spirit to numerous parties and clubs that would require drinks to entertain guests during the festive period.
Mrs Gbemisola Oni, the Managing Director, Drinks on Me Ltd., said that economic recession did not affect the penchant of Nigerians for exotic drinks during festivities.
“Initially, sales were dull during the course of the year with many people being economical with their money, but now many customers have thrown caution to the wind.
“I guess it is the spirit of the season coupled with the long vacation, many people intend to enjoy themselves by unwinding with the drinks,” she said.
Mr Waheed Balogun, a Sales Representative at Ekulo Wine World, said that the company was almost out of stock based on the heavy demand for drinks.
“We imported more champagne and wines to replenish our stock as our warehouse was almost empty by first week of December,” Balogun said.
Mr Chika Ekene, a customer, said that Christmas was incomplete without champagne to celebrate the joy of the season.
“We pop champagne to show our gratitude for a fruitful year and to herald the incoming one. A party without free flow of alcohol will not command any respect.
“Most of us save money to buy exotic drinks during Christmas. In fact, some months I went broke just to maintain my savings.
“Irrespective of price, we must buy the best drinks. It is a lifestyle that I and my friends have maintained for years,” he said.
Meanwhile, at the Apongbon Market in Lagos, a bottle of Hennessy Cognac Xo Extra is N56, 500, Hennessy VSOP goes for N14, 900, Dom Perignon Champagne cost N54, 850, while Moet Chandon Champagne is N13,900.
A bottle of Remy Martin costs N18, 050, Johnnie Walker Red Label N3,440, Andre Rose N2,300, Carlo Rossi N1,400.
Half dozen of Baron De Valls is N3,850 while a bottle cost N700.