Austrian wine exports double in value

The value of Austrian wine exports has more than doubled over the past decade despite a decline in shipment volumes, according to the country's Wine Marketing Board (AWMB).

Austrian wine has more than doubled since 2002

Provisional figures from the AWMB and Statistik Austria suggest that export volumes of Austrian wine held steady at 46m litres in 2012, but revenues rose to €128.5m – thanks to a shortage of low-priced wines brought about by spring frosts, and increases in higher price segments.

If confirmed, the figures would mean that exports of Austrian wine have more than doubled since 2002, despite a 60%-plus decline in volumes and a huge reduction in bulk wine shipments.

‘Austrian wine is no longer available at a cheap price,’ said Willi Klinger, AWMB general manager.

‘But our winemakers have been able to convince consumers at home and abroad that their quality wines deserve a fair price, and this is vital for the future of viniculture in our country because of the local cost structure.’

Germany accounted for 58% of Austria’s wine exports in 2012, but the fastest growing markets included the US (volumes up 10.7%), Norway (up 26%) and China (up 18.6%).

• The Annual Austria Wine Tasting takes place at the Institute of Directors, Pall Mall, London SW1Y 5EQ, on Tuesday 5th February 2013, 10.30 – 17.00pm. For more information, email London@advantageaustria.org or telephone 020 7590 5085.

Written by Richard Woodard