Total exports of New Zealand wine rose 7% to reach NZ$1.42bn in the 12 months ending 30 June, initiated by Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc sales to the US, according to the 2015 Annual Report of New Zealand Winegrowers. Exports to the US and the UK both posted strong increases, up 13% and 11% to NZ$372.2m and NZ$353.9m respectively. Exports to Australia fell 5% to NZ$362.2m.
This mean that New Zealand’s three main markets now each account for about 25% of total exports. Exports to the US have been driven by Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc, alongside other styles such as Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and red blends from Hawke’s Bay, and are especially strong on the west coast.