Less wine imported in the last year

Australia’s total volume of wine imports decreased in the 2015–16 financial year, down 4 per cent to 88 million litres, while the value increased by 8 per cent to $708 million. Wine Australia’s analysis of the situation delves into three different categories of wine imports – New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc, European sparkling and European table wine. New Zealand is the biggest import country and the volume imported has fallen in the past year, partially due to a small 2015 vintage. Partly offsetting this decrease in volume are red table wines from the largest three European producers (France, Italy and Spain), which have increased by 9 per cent. European sparkling has also increased, Champagne at a low rate off a large base, and Italian Prosecco and Spanish Cava at stronger rates off smaller bases.

Australian wines made from Italian varieties are gaining international recognition, as seen in this recent article from The Telegraph. Market data shows that Australian Sangiovese has increased by 3 per cent in crush between 2012 and 2015, and the price of purchased grapes has grown steadily for the last four vintages. Nero d’Avola experienced an increase in total area from 33 hectares in 2012 to 77 hectares in 2015.