31 May 2007


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South African wine exports to UK rise

Wines of South Africa

alcoholic drinks

wine

Source : Wines of South Africa
Latest figures from Wines of South Africa show exports to the UK are up almost eight per cent from January to April 2007, when compared to the same period in 2006, giving early indications of a turn around in the category's fortunes.

The trend is being driven by a significant uplift in exports of Shiraz and rosé wines, though South African classic varietals, Pinotage and Chenin, are faring well too: Pinotage saw an export uplift of 46 per cent and Chenin 11 per cent.

While South African wines are still losing UK market share on an annualised basis there is a marginal improvement in the trend and some indication that growth is being seen in the multiple grocers over short periods of time.

Leading South African brands such as Namaqua and FirstCape are seeing strong growth and there are a number of exciting burgeoning brands within the category such as Stormhoek, Spier and Beyerskloof.

Commenting on the latest figures, Jo Mason, UK market manager, said: “Although it is early days, we are delighted to see a turn around in exports to the UK for South African wines and hope the trend continues.

"There is an overwhelming feeling in the trade that South Africa had a lot to offer this market and it was interesting to see so much innovation from South Africa at the LIWSF, new packaging solution from Arniston Bay, rosé over ice from Stormhoek and Frozé and low alcohol wines from FirstCape's Café Collection are just a few examples.”

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