South West wine the toast of San Diego - 14 October 2008
An event which promoted local wine in San Diego last month has helped South West wineries uncork the American wine market.
Several wineries from the South West had the opportunity to introduce their products to US wine buyers, distributors and restaurateurs at the tasting aboard Dennis Connor’s yacht.
Celebrities including upcoming Star Trek movie star Chris Hemsworth also attended the event, sampling wine while they sailed around San Diego Bay to mark the 25th anniversary of Australia’s America’s Cup win.
Austrade TradeStart officer Mat Lewis, who works with the South West Development Commission to boost export opportunities for the region, said the event helped to raise the profile of the South West as a producer of fine wines.
“The wines were extremely well received and further enhanced the reputation and brand awareness of South West wineries in the wine savvy State of California,” he said.
“People attending the event were impressed with the wines showcased and expressed interest in doing business with the South West wine companies represented there.”
Salitage Wines owner John Horgan was encouraged by the feedback South West wines, including his own, received from buyers.
“The event was an excellent marketing coup for the South West Development Commission to attract Connor and the A-list guests from the wine industry on board to showcase some of the South West’s premium wines,” he said.
Austrade Chicago trade commissioner Ian Smith said as well as San Diego, a visit program was coordinated in Phoenix, Chicago, Philadelphia and New York City with positive results.
“While the US is both one of the toughest yet lucrative wine markets, qualified trade matching is essential,” he said.
“There are opportunities within this market if you are prepared to do the hard yards.”
The event held in New York City proved popular with long-time chef and radio and television host Michael Colameco who talked about the tasting on his Food Talk radio show.
The San Diego event was organised by the South West Development Commission and Department of Industry and Resources, with support from Austrade.
…ENDS
Media contact:
Teneille Watson
Community Relations Officer