New Zealand white wine is big business, worth over half a billion pounds in the UK of- trade during 2021 ranking second only to Australia.  However that’s down £77 million on the previous year when New Zealand ranked top for white wine. Whilst the poor harvest and global supply issues driving these declines aren’t new news, the problem isn’t going away any time soon.

With the 2021 harvest 19% smaller than 2020 and consumer demand at an all-time high there simply is not enough NZ Sauvignon Blanc for global demand. In 2021 New Zealand wine sales were at 324 million litres, that’s 48 million litres more than was produced in the 2021 vintage, resulting in suppliers drawing down on stocks, putting the pressure on for a good harvest in 2022.

Consumers are now seeing the consequences of this with retail volumes down 34% and prices on shelf up 11%, so how can we fill the gap? Waipapa Bay has looked beyond New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc with their new range extensions; a South African Sauvignon Blanc and a New Zealand Gruner Veltliner. Broadland Drinks’ Marketing Director Fran Draper explains how Waipapa Bay has tackled the problem.  

“New Zealand has become synonymous with Sauvignon Blanc over the past few years, and for many it represents the gold standard.  Consumers trust and know they like New Zealand wines so it’s the perfect opportunity to encourage consumers to try other wines that New Zealand has to offer. There are some excellent alternatives coming out of New Zealand, the vineyards provide perfect growing conditions for many other varietals beyond Sauvignon Blanc. The South Island’s cooler climate leads to a wonderful expression of flavours in aromatic grapes, so with that in mind we have added a Gruner Veltliner into the range.  This wine, produced in a dry style with notes of juicy pineapple, stone fruit and just a hint of white pepper is an outstanding addition to the Waipapa Bay range. We’re really excited for consumers to try something new and different.”

In addition to the Gruner Veltliner, Waipapa Bay has also launched a South African Sauvignon Blanc to meet growing consumer demand, with SA SB sales up over a fifth (+22%) as brands have sought other ways of keeping up with demand for the UK’s favourite varietal wine.

To find out more about the Waipapa Bay range click here or contact sales@broadlanddrinks.com.