Global consumption of alcoholic beverages grew by 6% from 2006 to 2007, according to a report released Tuesday by Nielsen. 
While growth rates varied significantly by region and within different alcoholic beverage categories, the results show that alcoholic ciders (+14%) and vodkas (+11%) showed the highest growth rates. 
“We are seeing a trend in certain markets, such as Russia and Poland, toward higher consumption of premium brands as consumers in those countries increase their spending power,” Richard Hurst, senior vice president, Beverage Alcohol, Nielsen, noted.  “Many emerging regions are becoming increasingly attractive …