Wine production hits new high

New Zealand produces world class Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, and Chardonnay wines. Photo / Greg Bowker

Wine growers are on track to hit their export goal of a billion dollars by 2010.

Revenues have hit a new high, rising 16 per cent in the year to March to $766 million. That's up from $661 million the previous year.

But Winegrowers chief Philip Gregan says the growth could easily have been even stronger. He says the 2007 vintage was not as big as many in the industry had hoped it would be.

Mr Gregan says the increased volumes of wine expected from this year's vintage will help satisfy new and developing markets in Asia.

- NEWSTALK ZB