GERMANY: German wine exports rise in 08

Exports of German wine rose by 11% in value in 2008, as gains in Europe and China offset a decline in the US, new figures show.

German wine exports totalled EUR427m (US$572m) in 2008, with volumes rising by 14% to 2.2m hectolitres, the German Wine Institute said today (27 March).

Exports by value rose 30%, 34% and 39% in Netherlands, Russia and Belgium respectively, helping to offset declines in the US and South Korea, the Institute said. Exports to China rose by 73%.

"After years of strong growth during which the US developed into Germany's most important export market in terms of value, value declined by 8%, and volume by 5%, in 2008."

Institute managing director Monika Reule said that many producers remain cautious on 2009, in light of the economic situation.

"Of course we hope that the overall market situation will improve, but export-oriented producers' business prognoses are somewhat reserved at the moment."

In the UK, a weak sterling against the euro and duty tax rises "do not bode well", the Institute added. Exports to the UK rose by 5% in value last year, but fell 3% in volume.

Germany will increase marketing behind the Pinot Noir varietal, known as Spätburgunder, alongside its flagship Riesling offering in 2009, the Institute said.