Alcohol sales rebound in October after a few less-thirsty months

The rise comes after a few months decline during the summer when lockdown restrictions were eased.

Christine Gouldthorp, consumer expert at PriceRunner, said: “Twenty twenty-one was the year of drinking at home. We witnessed a surge in private alcohol purchases like never before.

“Drinking at home clearly increased when pubs and restaurants were closed, easing up again once restrictions started to lift.”

Individual drinks that sold particularly well in October included Midori Melon Liqueur, which saw a near ninefold month on month increase (863%), probably because its bright green colour makes it in demand for Halloween cocktails.

Other big sales increases were for Lagavulin 16-year-old single malt whisky, which was up 97%, and Hennessy cognac, up 66%.

The prices at which retailers sell alcohol continued to reveal enormous variations.

In the most extreme example, a bottle of Chivas Regal 12-year-old blended Scotch whisky cost £20 at one retailer and £110 at another.