Grand Tasting
The Australian Trade Commission and Wine Australia held the Australian Wine Grand Tasting 2015 at the JW Marriott in Seoul today. Fifty different brands from Australia showcased their products. The display included popular types of wine like Chardonnay, Riesling, Sauvignon, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Shiraz. Korean wine enthusiasts were offered varieties of taste and flavor that ranged from dry, sweet, still, sparkling, and fortified wine.
According to the Korea International Trade Association, the total wine imports in the second half of 2015 reached US$9.4 million, which is 24.9 percent of all liquor imported. Wine imports have surpassed those of hard liquor, and are on the rise for a sixth consecutive year.
The representatives of many and varied Australian wine estates were optimistic about being successful in the Korean market. The 15 percent tariff that disappeared after the FTA between Australia and Korea has leveled the playing field with European and Chilean wines. Australian wine, which boasts more innovation and variety and a rich history that goes back to the 1850s, is looking forward to winning Korean customers.
The Head of Market Development for Wine Australia, Stuart Barclay, said, “Australia has been able to produce wine that has won the hearts of wine enthusiasts around the world, and is preparing wine that suits the taste of Koreans.”
In the same line, Senior Trade Commissioner Brett Cooper stated, “As much as Australian wine is gaining popularity and increasing its demand, we wish to introduce varieties that are not found in the Korean market and increase the choices for customers.”