Kiwi winemakers should be aware of business cultural differences in China

A new market is emerging for New Zealand winemakers as eastern cultures develop a taste for the Kiwi drop.

Asia is the world's fastest-growing wine market and it's one New Zealand winemakers want to be a part of, following recent economic struggles.

In 2008 the continent consumed 1.3 billion bottles of wine, and it was predicted that would grow by 25% over the following five years.

New Zealand exports more than $50 million worth of wine to Asia each year, which is five times more than what it did a decade ago.

Jeannie Cho-Lee, wine writer and critic from Hong-Kong, said wine has quickly become more popular in Asia.

Cho-Lee said while demand for wine in Asia is on the rise, Kiwi winemakers need to be aware of business cultural differences to make the most of opportunities.

viticultural properties, it's a recent thing...maybe two inspections a month."

New Zealand's Overseas Investment Office recently approved applications from Asian investors to buy several vineyards in Hawke's Bay, and Marlborough.