Strong sales signal confidence in the NZ wine industry

Strong sales signal confidence in the New Zealand wine industry

Solid export value growth and continued demand for New Zealand wine is the summary of the year according to the June year end 2014 Annual Report of New Zealand Winegrowers.

“Wineries took full advantage of the glorious 2013 vintage to bounce back from the supply constraints of 2012. The end result was a 10% increase in both export volume and value as overseas sales earned a record $1.33 billion” said Steve Green, Chair of New Zealand Winegrowers. The highly successful sales year left stocks needing replenishment and even greater demand forecast. 445,000 tonnes of grapes were harvested in 2014.

All grape growing regions witnessed a two-speed growing season which commenced early but slowed in the lead-up to vintage with a run of fine but cool weather in most regions allowing for good flavour development. “The 2014 harvest may seem like a drop in the ocean compared to major producers, but it was a record for New Zealand and signals the drive for export growth in the year ahead” said Mr Green.

Strong sales and forecasted demand signals confidence amongst growers and wineries with over 80% indicating a positive outlook for their businesses for the year ahead in the annual Member Survey. This confidence is demonstrated in a lift in vineyard and infrastructure development in the past 12 months. However Mr Green cautioned that investment counts for little without the premium reputation that New Zealand wine has built up over the years.

Mr Green highlighted that continued commitment to quality, integrity and protecting the national reputation is the foundation of New Zealand wine’s iconic status. “Consistently meeting consumer expectations for premium New Zealand wines will take us a long way. Being the most sought after and highly valued must be our aspiration to ensure a bright future”.

The 2014 Annual Report can be accessed by clicking here and is available online: http://www.nzwine.com/info-centre/.

-ENDS-

© Scoop Media