New Zealand wine export earnings shot up by more than 30% in 2006.
According to industry body New Zealand Winegrowers, exports topped NZ$611m, more than double the export earnings from two and a half years ago.
Chris Yorke, global marketing director of New Zealand Winegrowers said, ‘The wine industry is on track to achieve export earnings in excess of NZ$1bn by 2010’
He also said he was pleased at the performance of secondary export markets such as Canada (up 60%), Denmark (up 51%), and Ireland (up 41%),
‘For the first time, exports to our second-tier markets topped NZ$100m for the year.’
The core markets of the UK, US, and Australia also showed significant year-on-year growth.
Sauvignon Blanc prevailed as the major export variety with 25% increase on last year but Pinot Noir established itself in second place with 41% growth.
Written by Sophie Montagne
