Spanish winemakers see Hong Kong as gateway to Chinese market

Spanish winemakers said on Wednesday they were pushing to make gains in the potentially vast Chinese wine market as they showcased their wares at one of Asia’s largest wine fairs in Hong Kong.

The International Wine and Spirits Fair, which partnered with Spain this year, has attracted more than 1,000 producers from around the world, as the southern Chinese city cements its position as an international wine hub.

Spain, now the third biggest exporter of bottled wine to China behind France and Australia according to Chinese customs reports, is seizing the opportunity to introduce its products to one of the world’s fastest growing wine markets.

“Consumers in China now have more curiosity for different wines,” Jose Maria Nieves, the export director for Spanish winemaker Bodegas Julian Chivite, said.

Because of this, there is “big potential” for Spanish wines, Nieves said, adding that Chinese consumers are venturing away from their favoured French products.

Another Spanish winemaker, Vintae, said its revenue from China this year had jumped to around 400,000 euros (HK$4.18 million) from less than 50,000 euros three years ago.