New York, NY, September 19, 2017 — South Africa’s imported wine volume in the US is up 13 percent for 2017 over the same period of 2016, according to a second quarter Gomberg-Fredriksen report. As South Africa’s wine industry continues to ripen with discovery for industry and consumers, Wines of South Africa (WOSA) US predicts continued growth in this sector.
“We’re delighted to see these figures, especially as early as the second quarter. Continued growth on the import side clearly demonstrates that South Africa is earning much deserved attention in the US market,” states Jim Clarke, WOSA US Marketing Manager.
The modernization of South Africa’s wine region and resulting influx of industry leaders championing the region has driven recognition to some of South Africa’s prominent tastemakers. South Africa’s first black female winemaker, Ntsiki Biyela, owner of Aslina Wines and former winemaker of Stellakaya was recently named one of the ‘Most Innovative Women in Food & Drink’ by Food & Wine Magazine and Fortune Magazine. In addition, Sam Timberg, managing director and VP of sales of Meridian Prime, one of the leading importers of South African wine in the US, was named to Wine Enthusiast’s 40 Under 40 Tastemakers list.
Wines of South Africa will close the year with a series of events, providing opportunities to explore South African varietals for press, trade and consumer audiences. WineLA will feature the Wines of South Africa on October 4 at Marina City Club in Marina Del Rey, CA. WOSA will also host South Africa Wine Week in New Orleans from October 30 to November 5.
About Wines of South Africa
Wines of South Africa (WOSA) is the organization representing all South African producers of wine who export their products. WOSA, which was established in its current form in 1999, has over 500 exporters on its database, comprising all the major South African wine exporters. It is constituted as a not-for-profit company and is totally independent of any producer, wholesaling company or government department but is recognized by the South African Export Council. WOSA’s mandate is to promote the export of all South African wines in key international markets including the United States.
