Grape growers Will & Jayne Grigg ‘cautiously optimistic’ about industry’s future
Marlborough grape growers Will and Jayne Grigg are "cautiously optimistic" about the future of the region's wine industry.
OPINION: Members will be aware of the significant challenges facing vineyards and wineries (highlighted in our 2024 Annual Report).
Rising costs have eroded profitability, while domestic and export sales slowed in 2024 due to tough economic conditions. Geopolitical shifts are adding further uncertainty, with the threat of protectionism in key markets.
Industry stocks are also high, despite the small crop of less than 400,000 tonnes last year. Large vintages in 2022 and 2023 (both exceeding 500,000 tonnes), exacerbated by slower sales in 2024, mean inventories remain higher than anticipated. Together these issues are contributing to an increasingly uncertain and unpredictable outlook.
Vintage 2025
Favourable weather has set the stage for a high-quality 2025 harvest. That is good news for the reputation of New Zealand wine and the long-term health of the sector. Over the past year, industry sales have equated to approximately 430,000 tonnes of grapes. A 2025 vintage below this level may reduce stock levels, while a higher yield could increase them unless sales rise. Importantly, I must emphasise that production levels are a matter of each individual business to decide, as New Zealand Winegrowers (NZW) does not (and cannot) get involved in how much the industry chooses to produce each year.
New Zealand wine's reputation remains strong
Despite the challenging times, market data confirms New Zealand wine maintains a strong consumer reputation based on quality, distinctive and sustainable wines. This data supports a positive long-term outlook, as it provides confidence our producers are well-positioned to capitalise on key trends in our major markets.
Current Initiatives
NZW currently is investing in a range of initiatives designed to support members and the industry, including:
We are anticipating a challenging and busy 2025. Best wishes for a successful vintage.
Fabian Yukich is Chair of New Zealand Winegrowers.
OPINION: Members will be aware of the significant challenges facing vineyards and wineries (highlighted in our 2024 Annual Report).
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