d'Arenberg eyes growth through China

The owner of local wine producer d'Arenberg, Francis Osborn, says growing demand from the Chinese wine-market will be the key to the local industry's future success, The Australian reports.

According to the newspaper, Mr Osborn said d'Arenberg had received numerous offers to distribute its product in China, though the company is confident in their already establish roots in the growing market.

Growing Chinese enthusiasm for local wine has seen Western Australian winery Palandri fall into Chinese ownership, with Chinese food giants Bright Food and Cofco also making substantial investments in the local sector.

Exports of Australian wines grew from less than $50 million in 2006-2007 to $214 million over the past financial year, making it Australia's third largest consumer of wine.