Educating Sommeliers Worldwide.
By Beverage Trade Network
Portuguese wines can be enjoyed all over the world, but the UK is one of its oldest and very best markets. Ranking 3rd in value in terms of exports of Portuguese wines, the UK is a key focus for Portuguese producers. Despite the pandemic, 2020 was a positive year for Portuguese wine exports, according to the recent 2020 complete data, with the UK importing 90 million euros (± £77 million) worth of Portuguese wines: an impressive increase of 16.2% (compared to 2019). From Portugal’s top 3 markets (France, USA and UK), the UK shows the greatest overall growth. Wines of Portugal just released the data for the first 3 months of 2021 and it shows a +9.41% increase in value as well.
Frederico Falcão, Chairman of ViniPortugal's Board, recalls that 'this is a trajectory that goes back a long way, with Portugal reaping the rewards of the investments in international promotion, especially in the UK, which is a priority market. We're investing in showing the quality of our wines and the fact that the average price of Portuguese wine imports to the UK is now of €4.35 (£3.73, second only to France). We can only be happy and proud'.
The next promotional activity of Wines of Portugal is the generic virtual stand at the London Wine Fair, taking place from 17 to 19 May. 22 wineries are attending the digital version of the fair and are all seeking distribution. A large selection of different styles is represented, from various regions: Vinho Verde, Douro, Dão, Tejo, Lisboa, Alentejo and Península de Setúbal. The 22 producers will be there, during the 3 days of the fair, to meet importers and retailers interested in adding Portuguese wines to their portfolio.
You can find out more about the Portuguese wineries attending the London Wine Fair HERE (if you are a Trade member, you will have to register to follow this link).
Dr. Jamie Goode will also be presenting a Masterclass, 'Peeling Back Portugal': an unmissable road trip, traversing the regions, and taking pit stops at eight exciting wineries looking to make their mark in the UK. It will take place on Monday 17th at 3pm. Jamie's passion for Portuguese wines is known by many: 'Portugal is a treasure trove of interesting, high quality wines - and many of them are still relatively undiscovered. In this seminar we will be looking at a few of these gems and discussing where they might fit in the UK marketplace. I think it will be a fun session'. You can ask for samples for this masterclass HERE (limited sample kits available).
Globally Portuguese exports saw an unprecedented rise to almost 850 million euros in 2020 (± £730 million pounds). This is a +3.2% increase compared to 2019, putting Portugal in line to achieve the ambitious target of €1 billion of wine exports by 2023.
ViniPortugal's mission is to promote Portugal internationally as a quality wine producing country, adding value to the Wines of Portugal brand, implementing a promotional programme to help producers grow their volume and price per bottle in key markets.
Daniela Costa, UK Area Manager
E: daniela.costa@viniportugal.pt
Wines of Portugal Communication Agency for 2021
Ana Sofia Oliveira, Managing Owner