The history evolution and revolution of Australian
Australian wine impressed the palates of influential wine trade and media across Asia after a series of master classes held by Wine Australia in partnership with Austrade.
The ‘History, Evolution and Revolution’ master classes, held in Singapore, Seoul, Hong Kong and Tokyo respectively from 20–27 January, brought to life Australian fine wine and its winemakers at a time when exports to the region are growing strongly.Australian wine exports to Asia have seen solid growth in 2015, particularly in the above A$10/litre FOB category. Exports above A$10/litre to Hong Kong are up 17 per cent to $95 million, Singapore are up 10 per cent to $41 million, Japan are up 17 per cent to $7 million and Korea are up 42 per cent to $5 million.
Topics explored through the wines on show included the history of Australian winemaking, the evolution of classic wine styles and the emergence of alternative varieties and styles, and the innovation and experimentation of Australian winemakers today that will influence the winemaking techniques and technologies of tomorrow.
Wine Australia General Manager Marketing Stuart Barclay said, ‘We had a good cross-section of attendees in each city – a mix of on-premise, off-premise, media and importers.
‘The Australian wine landscape is incredibly diverse and perhaps daunting for the uninitiated and this tasting proved a great way to illuminate that complexity in a tight and focused fashion.
‘Guests said they had learned how the character of Australian fine wines has been shaped, how they are evolving and the innovation that is inspiring the next generation. They enjoyed new discoveries, some surprises and the master class reinforced the joy of wine,’ he said.
Suzanne Brocklehurst, freelance wine writer and consultant based in Singapore said, ‘It was encouraging to see so many enthusiastic responses to the wines tasted. More of this kind of tasting is necessary to ensure Australian wine doesn’t lose the lustre or prominence it has enjoyed up to this point, in this particular market.
‘I too enjoyed some of the ‘surprises’ in the line-up. That is the joy of wine – the constant changes result in new discoveries all the time.’
Myung-jin Kim of Austrade Seoul said, ‘Partnering with Wine Australia on Australian wine events has succeeded in creating renewed interest in our among the Korean wine industry.
‘There were several senior sommeliers and many young sommeliers enthusiastic to learn more about Australian wines.’
Wine Australia’s Head of Market Asia Pacific Hiro Tejima emphasised the importance of ongoing activities in these markets.
‘It is critical Australia remains “front of mind” with key wine people across Asian markets, particularly by Australian winemakers meeting with them and showing them their beautiful wines.
‘Through educational and promotional activities Wine Australia reinforces these messages to positively change and raise the perception of Australian wine.
‘Wine Australia looks forward to continuing to collaborate with Austrade. With its local offices in our target markets, this is an important partnership that will help us achieve our wine export goals in the Asia Pacific region,’ he said.
Regions to feature in the tasting included:
- Adelaide Hills SA
- Barossa Valley SA
- Clare Valley SA
- Coonawarra SA
- Hunter Valley NSW
- Margaret River WA
- McLaren Vale SA
- Mornington Peninsula VIC
- Rutherglen VIC
- Yarra Valley VIC