South African wine exports are up 36% over 2007 export figures as of September this year, reports wine export facilitator Wines of South Africa (Wosa).

Wosa CEO Su Birch reports that the growth is being driven by the weakening rand and the commendable performance of South African wines in key export markets.

She adds that, although the final figures for the year have not been calculated, it is believed that exports will maintain momentum and finish up considerably higher then 2007’s figures. Last year, South Africa exported 309-million litres of wine to the international market.

Birch reports that a year ago, South African winemakers were working towards reclaiming lost ground after a slight dip in sales in 2006. The results of this reclamation is that international consumers have an extensive range of South African wines to choose from.

She adds that the biggest international consumer of South African wines by volume is the UK.

Birch reports that, according to the latest data from independent market research company AC Nielsen, South Africa is the fastest-growing category in the UK off-trade wine market.

In the first period of 2008, South African export wines grew 13% by volume, against a total market growth of 1,1%. South African value sales also grew by 13%, demonstrating a strong and profitable performance from this category. South Africa’s current market share in the UK is 9,1%, by volume, and it is the fifth-largest export country in the UK market.

Wosa UK market manager Jo Mason says that it is satisfying to see South Africa performing so well in one of its most established export markets. “South Africa enjoys an enviable image in the minds of UK consumers and the quality and value for money the country offers are clearly having an effect. The more established South African brands have been successful this year.

Numerous South African brands have delivered commendable results, and Arniston Bay in particular has put in a strong performance. According to the latest Nielsen statistics – Total Off Trade MAT to 9 August 2008 – Arniston Bay increased by 21.9% in value.

In addition, South African wines are selling more wines above the £5 a bottle mark. This is being driven by the fact that South Africa is being viewed as a producer of premium wines with distinctive regional characteristics,” says Mason.

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