Earlier it was reported that New Zealand wine has been growing rapidly in the U.S. market and is now in the top 3 in volume for countries exporting wine to the U.S. market. Updating that report, New Zealand wine exports have now surpassed $500 million in value for the first time ever. That is an increase of over 11 percent from the same time last year.
Total wine exports for New Zealand reached a new record of $1.63 billion in March 2017, according to Statistics New Zealand. Wine now represents the countries 5th largest export good by value and is showing no signs of slowing down. The wine industry has a goal of $2 billion in export value by 2020 and sees the U.S. market as their primary focus for expansion. New Zealand’s most popular wine in the U.S. is their sauvignon blanc, which has gained increased popularity among younger wine drinkers and is expected to see demand continue to grow with increased exposure and marketing.
Source: Drinks International, May 2017