Wine growers see export recovery

Wine expert Blair Gibbs says New Zealand has begun to see a solid recovery in export markets as the northern hemisphere summer comes to a close and the Christmas period comes into focus.

"Predictions of further yield reductions through grape growers and wine companies working closely together to meet demand will see further quality gains especially enhance Marlborough's world class reputation,'' says Gibbs, the head of Wine Marlborough and the Spy Valley label.

He says globally there are opportunities in new markets and many pockets of the market are begin to fire by buying across the board.

Gibbs says the UK, a traditional market for this country, has begun its recovery but New Zealand will need to work hard to promote its brand again.

The level of bulk exports to the UK was staggeringly high this year and New Zealand's market position, which took 30 years to build, has been eroded.

"The market is recovering after a huge amount of pressure. There are brands that have suffered, while some have succeeded."

At the same time, wine companies say they are cautiously optimistic about another good growing season.

Gibbs says Spy Valley's 2009 wines are being blended, bottled and released over the next six weeks.

Frost fighting is underway with early blocks of chardonnay and pinot noir showing leaf as a result of the exceptionally warm August which is two weeks earlier than they might like.