WineLook weekly (September 2007 news )

WineLook’s unquenchable thirst for knowledge has lead us to visit different export seminars across NSW held by the Department of State and Regional Development and Austrade.  At one of the get togethers in Sydney’s MLC Centre on September 12, discussions covered proposed free trade agreements and implications for Australian exporters, as well as practical advice on new trends, opportunities and trade tips.
It focused on North-East Asia, comprising markets in the Greater China region, Japan, Korea and Taiwan and conducted in a panel style with experienced senior Trade Commissioners from NE Asia.
The seminar catered perfectly for WineLook’s mantra of concentrating on premium wines, a growing trend in these NE Asian countries.
It should definitely affect distribution methods and possibly lead to developing a new innovative approach and new alternatives to existing customers.
The general trend has moved from bulk wine towards bottles of entry level wine and increasingly, we are happy to report, to truly premium niche wines costing more than a $100 a case based on FOB prices.
Customers’ demand for premium wines reflects not only a growing income but also an appreciation for higher quality products.
One of  WineLook’s guests from Thailand pointed out that for him to drink cheap wine not only damages his prestige in front of his wealthy friends but also affects his performance at  work the following day. It is well known that cheaper drinks, especially if you mix them, can harm your health sometimes for days on end.
So let your body be your best adviser. After a first glass of wine, assess its effect on you. If it sticks in your throat try something better. The rule of thumb is that, with a few exceptions, more expensive wine is usually of a better quality.