New Zealand riding on high on record exports as annual tasting approaches

By Andrew Catchpole

Published: 18 October, 2016

The UK New Zealand Winegrowers' Annual New Release Tasting is to showcase wineries seeking representation as exports reach NZ$1.54bn record high

The UK New Zealand Winegrowers' Annual New Release Tasting is to showcase wineries seeking representation as exports reach NZ$1.54bn record high.

Taking place on 1 November at New Zealand House in London, the tasting will feature 160 wines from 50 producers, including a broad selection of samples from the high volume 2016 vintage, plus a selection of wineries looking for UK agents and importers.

The country is seeking to build upon its recent WSTA Quarterly-reported double-digit growth in the UK off-trade, coupled with market-leading growth in the on-trade, against a backdrop of record global exports that hit NZ$1.54bn in 2015.

This boom in exports, up some 14% on 2014, came on the back of a record-breaking harvest volume-wise in 2014, which saw prices for lead variety Sauvignon Blanc dip in the UK and elsewhere. But New Zealand appears to be back on track as the wine category commanding the highest average bottle price in the UK. (all figs NZ Winegrowers)

Chris Stroud, marketing manager for New Zealand Winegrowers in Europe, highlighted New Zealand's premium status, saying that value sales continue to grow above volume increases.

Stroud added: "The latest data shows that New Zealand wine continues to grow in popularity. In a generally flat market it is heartening to see strong growth for New Zealand in the premium segment which will deliver excellent value for our customers."

The 2016 tasting will also highlight some 18 varieties, coming at a time when New Zealand's winemakers are increasingly keen to promote their diversity, including the on-going emergence of diversity within styles of their flagship Sauvignon Blanc wines.

The 2016 harvest delivered 436,000 tonnes, up 34% on the small 2015 harvest, though still short of the bumper crop in 2014.

For further details about the tasting visit: www.nzwine.com/events/new-release-and-discovery-tasting-london

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