Tempus Two extends Quartz range with new Sauvignon Blanc

Australian Vintage has extended its Tempus Two Quartz range with the launch of a new Sauvignon Blanc, which it says comes in response to Australian Sauvignon Blanc becoming the second most popular Australian white wine varietal in the UK.

The Tempus Two Quartz range was launched exclusively in the UK into retailer Sainsbury’s last month with a premium Chardonnay and Shiraz. It has been designed to help consumers explore the vertical range, and has been supported by in store activity with a pipeline of events planned in the coming months to further engage with its target consumer.

It follows the launch of the premium Silver series in the UK market in September 2017.

Julian Dyer, Australian Vintages’ chief operating officer for the UK, said the company had seen a rapid increase in Australian Sauvignon Blanc sales across the market, up 11% from last year.

“With the launch of Sauvignon Blanc, this continues to build Tempus Two’s presence in the UK. We’ll be continuing to capitalise on the launch in 2020 by investing in experiential events which will enable our consumers to immerse themselves in the premium brand.”

“We’re driving that differentiation as a brand builder. It’s different from the norm, the packaging is sophisicated and high-end and we’re going for a different target market,” he told db.

Tempus Two winemaker Andrew Duff, said the Quartz series imparted a level of style and sophistication to everyday drinking.

“As a winemaker, it’s exciting to be able to demonstrate high quality, modern wine styles from premium regions across Australia to UK consumers,” he said. “The Sauvignon Blanc has been crafted to add a touch of style to every occasion joining a range perfect for alfresco drinking, dinner parties or relaxing at home.”

Dyer said the brand had been going from strength-to-strength in the Australian market, after seeing growth of over 140% in the past 5 years.

“Increasing the presence of Tempus Two within the UK market is all part of our strategy to ensure AVL has a strong branded portfolio that delivers to delight our customers and meet their wants and needs,” he said.

Speaking to db recently, Duff said the team was focusing on a drier wine style in its red wines rather than going for ‘over the top’ oak, and concentrating on the purity of the fruit.

“Millennials are drinking less but making sure they have a great experience when they do. Being able to do a premium wine at £9 is something we’re really happy to do.”