Lebanese wine exports reach new high

Published: 01 February, 2013

Exports of Lebanese wine to the UK leapt by 33% to $4.3 million (£2.7 million) last year according to new figures released by Lebanese Customs.

The increase is the second double-digit rise for the country, which grew sales to the UK by 26% to $3.2 million (£2 million) in 2011.

The UK was one of the fastest growing export markets for Lebanese wineries, with total exports up 7.9% to $14.3 million (£9 million).Sales to the US grew by 29.8% to $1.9 million, while exports to France were up 4.8% to $2.4 million.

Lebanon's association of wine producers, the Union Vinicole du Liban (UVL), has funded a marketing programme in the UK since 2010. The Wines of Lebanon campaign won the generic campaign of the year award at the International Wine Challenge last year for raising awareness of Lebanon as a wine producing country through trade and consumer events, media coverage and an education website.

"The figures demonstrate that in markets where we as wineries invest significant time and money, we are beginning to reap the benefits", said Faouzi Issa, owner of Domaine des Tourelles on behalf of UVL.

The first Emerging Regions Tasting, organised by the SITT team in association with Harpers, will showcase a number of Mediterranean, eastern European and South American wine regions. Those interested in the event should contact Freddie Johnson.

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