China has been a market of particular interest for Australian wine producers since the Australia-China Free Trade Agreement was approved last year. The agreement opened up significant opportunities for Australia in China and exports have surged dramatically ever since. Only recently was it reported that Australian wine exports have risen by 66 per cent to $370 million in the market.
CWSA judge, Dean Lapthorne, who is also an Area Sales Representative for Queensland's Sirromet Wines in China, says it is a very important market to be involved in.
"I look at the Asian market, especially HK and China, as one of the most important markets in the world", Lapthorne said.
"Take a look at the trends out of Australia, where I am from, the majority of the exports are going into China. It is a very important industry to be in."
The merit of the awards received from CWSA - one of the most prestigious wine competitions in all of Asia - is therefore significant, acting as a benchmark for buyers from all over China according to judge and Grand Hyatt Macau Hotel Manager Claudio Salgado.
"For many they can look at the results of the CWSA awards to start their shortlisting of wines that they may not have heard about or be familiar with", said Salgado. "They see that this wine has received it and will prompt them to try it."
Taylors 2015 Estate Merlot (RRP $20) will be top of buyers' lists this week after receiving the CWSA trophy for Australian Wine of the Year. The family-owned winery also received three double gold and nine gold medals for its portfolio of Clare Valley wines.
“Australia’s success at the China Wine and Spirits Awards not only raises the profile of our country’s wines, but also signifies China’s growing appetite for Australian wines", Taylors Wines third generation Managing Director Mitchell Taylor said.
"We're extremely proud to be recognised for Australian Wine of the Year at this year's CWSA. China represents a great opportunity for the Australian wine industry.
“As tariffs continue to lift from the recent Free Trade Agreement, all signs point to ongoing growth for quality wines that give consumers value for money.”
Other trophy winning Australian producers this year included McWilliam's Wines, which received the South Australian Wine of the Year trophy for its 2013 Wildling Winemaker's Shiraz and Wolf Blass Wines, which received the trophy for Barossa Valley Wine of the Year for its 2012 Wolf Blass Platinum Shiraz. Jacob's Creek, Mr Riggs and Zonte's Footstep were also among Australian trophy winners.
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