Small winemakers left off the vine
By Wine Atlas, Monday 25 February 2008 :: Wine - New-Zealand :: #152 :: rss
The 2008 wine harvest is under way around New Zealand's winegrowing regions, with an anticipated yield of about 18 million cases of wine. But as the pickers moved into the vineyards in Gisborne, a deal was being signed in Auckland that will make that wine harder to sell, at least in New Zealand.
The takeover of Auckland-based wine distributor Burleigh Trading by Vintage Wines & Spirits is the latest development in the consolidation of the domestic wine market and, by reducing further the representation of small wine producers in metropolitan markets, one that could have significant long-term effects on the health of the wine business.
Without small producers New Zealand loses its innovative edge, the advantage that delivered such international successes as Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir, as well as exciting winegrowing regions like Waipara, Central Otago, Nelson, Waiheke Island and Wairarapa.
The fundamental truth is that the geography here insists winegrowing is a marginal activity and costs of production are high and volatile. This demands two things of a wine producer - maximised control of raw materials (owning their own vineyards) and access to high-value markets for their premium products.
Continue reading : nzherald.co.nz
