Germany: Reichsrat Von Buhl
Wednesday, 29 April, 2009 by NickyB
“The quality-price ratio of German wines is still extremely good for consumers, with Germany’s main grape varieties, Riesling, Pinot Noir, Pinot Blanc and Pinot Grigio, becoming more and more popular. Germany’s cooler climate is also ideal for the trend for somewhat lighter, aromatic wines which go well with modern, light cuisine.” Steffan Schindler, DWI.
The 2007 crop yielded 10.3 million hectoliters of wine – a quantity well above average. Qualilty was also high. some 192 million liters of German wine were exported in 2007 yet the average price per liter was about two euros, equivalent to an export value of 382 million euros and an increase in value of 7.5 percent compared with the year before. Quantity rose by 3.8 percent.
In terms of value, the USA is the most important export market (103 million euros); in terms of quantity, Great Britain (557,000 hl). Exports to Sweden, Holland, Russia and Belgium showed the highest growth rates.
The increasing popularity of Riesling wines is also reflected in the vineyard area devoted to this varietal. As in the preceding year, Riesling acreage increased by ca. 500 ha (1,235 acres) in 2007. With an area equal to 21.3 percent of Germany’s vineyards, Riesling is by far the most important grape variety.
Contact for Wines of Germany:
17 Exeter Street, London, WC2E 7DU
Tel: 020 7759 7405
Fax: 020 7759 7401
www.winesofgermany.co.uk
