(Food-Beverage-News.Com, October 10, 2014 ) Seacliff, SA -- Back in the 90's and early 2000's things were very rosy for Australian wine exporters. The U.S.A. couldn't get enough of it, especially the over ripened, big bodied, high alcohol Shiraz; a grape variety that became synonymous with cheap, readily available Australian wine. With varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Grenache also being very popular, it seemed like the sky was the limit for Australian wine makers. But like all good things, it eventually came to an end.
There are a few reasons for this drop off in sales; some of it comes down to the Aussie dollar rising considerably in value in the last few years, which has hit Australian exports very hard in all sectors. Another reason is that the U.S. is producing record levels of its own wine, with each successive year seeing an increase on the last. Also, a big problem with Aussie imported wine in the past has been that it has mainly targeted the cheaper end of the sector, aiming at the $10-$12 range. Whilst this strategy worked very well for a long time, it is now unpopular due to the rise of interest in higher end wines. The big bolshie reds that were in vogue for so long have been pushed to the side lines making way for more subtle, interesting and unique wines.
Accordingly, Australian exporters are moving with the times, and are seeing an increase in demand for their higher-end wines. Wine Australia's American marketing representative Angela Slade said "it's a fascinating shift", "What we're seeing is a rise in value, and we're really seeing that in wines in the premium price-point, wines that hit the shelf at about $15 to $19.99". Although wine sale volumes are down 15%, it seems exported Aussie wine to the U.S. is commanding higher prices, due to the shift in quality rather than quantity. Another shift has been the growth in on-line sales which is helping to bring lesser known, more niche wine producers to the fore, making it easier than ever to sample a wider range of wines.
Distinct Wine Accessories spokesman David Harwin said "There will always be a market for cheaper wine, but with the interest in premium varieties growing, Australian wine producers are coming round to the idea that exporting a better variety might be the way forward – which I think is great news as we here at Distinct Wine Accessories have always preferred quality over quantity. That's why our wine accessories are premium only".
About Distinct Wine Accessories
Disctint Wine Accessories is a company that specialises in premium quality accessories to complement wine, and the enjoyment that comes from drinking wine. Based in Adelaide S.A. we retail through Amazon.com. We are the makers of the best wine aerator best wine aerator and other wine products.
