Plastered, smashed, blotto – in this country, there’s no shortage of slang for drinking too much.

But our reputation as a nation of heavy drinkers is changing.

The facts aren’t blind – we’re turning our back on alcohol like never before, and our favourite drink makers are changing tack.

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What started as a gimmick in all sectors of alcohol now looms as a race.What started as a gimmick in all sectors of alcohol now looms as a race. (Nine)

Wine had to win over our palate as a beer-drinking nation, and not only that, but beat off the world’s jokes.

But Australian wine had the last laugh, now a world leader, and it’s facing up to another big challenge – us.

“Up to 59 per cent of people are looking to reduce their alcohol intake, that’s Australian-based research,” Treasury Wine general manager Sarah Parkes said.

Treasury Wine, home of Pepperjack, Penfolds and Squealing Pig, is Australia’s largest producer.

Winemaker Toby Barlow has just unveiled a new $15 million machine aimed at cracking the holy grail: great tasting low alcohol wine.

“Were seeing, globally, the moderation trend amidst consumers is growing, so this is Treasury really saying we need to lead this for the wine industry but also for Australia,” Barlow said.

It’s not alone in trying to find a mid-strength messiah.

What started as a gimmick in all sectors of alcohol now looms as a race.

WATCH THE FULL VIDEO ABOVE.

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