Australian Vintage brings NZ wine to UK

Australian Vintage has launched its first New Zealand wine into the UK market to tap into the continuing growth of Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc.

The new wine, which is called Little Pebble, is already available in the Australia market but the company’s UK and Europe general manager Julian Dyer said it made “perfect sense” to bring the brand to the UK.

“We are constantly on the lookout for opportunities to grow and expand our portfolio based on the evolving UK market,” he said. “Bringing a Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc into the fold made perfect sense for our business, given the popularity and versatility of the variety.”

Sales of New Zealand wine increased 15% in the UK during 2016, according to figures released by the Wine and Spirit Trade Association (WSTA) in its Q4 end of year Market Report, the second fastest growing country of origin. Overall New Zealand sold more than 63 million bottles in the UK, a rise of 15% from the previous year, with 42 million litres sold in the UK off-trade, a +16% increase on the previous year. By value, New Zealand saw growth of 13%, with value sales reaching £401 million.

According  to marketing body, New Zealand Wine, the flagship Marlborough region made up around 77% of New Zealand’s production by volume in 2014, with Sauvignon Blanc also accounting for 77% of the area under vine.

“Little Pebble has been a great success for us back in Australia, and we believe UK wine drinkers will receive this wine well, enjoying it at a variety of occasions,” Dyer added.

The Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc has been listed at Sainsbury’s (RRP: £8).