A new report says that Merlot continues to expand its dominance in the red wine category, growing in volume by 10 percent in 2002 and expanding its lead over sales of Cabernet.
The Wine Trends report, issued by wine business advisory firm Motto Kryla Fisher, also said that the overall California wine industry grew by one percent during 2002, with wines over $15 per bottle increasing by eight percent in sales.
"In general, we saw more discounting due to oversupply and competition than we have seen in the five years since we started Wine Trends," said Michelle Rowell, MKF Senior Market Consultant. "Wineries reduced their prices to wholesalers in almost all of the eight price segments of the seven major varietals we track."
Varietals showing the most growth in 2002 included Zinfandel, Pinot Noir, and Syrah although not at the levels seen in previous years.
The Wine Trends report, issued by wine business advisory firm Motto Kryla Fisher, also said that the overall California wine industry grew by one percent during 2002, with wines over $15 per bottle increasing by eight percent in sales.
"In general, we saw more discounting due to oversupply and competition than we have seen in the five years since we started Wine Trends," said Michelle Rowell, MKF Senior Market Consultant. "Wineries reduced their prices to wholesalers in almost all of the eight price segments of the seven major varietals we track."
Varietals showing the most growth in 2002 included Zinfandel, Pinot Noir, and Syrah although not at the levels seen in previous years.
- KC's View:
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Well, we're certainly doing our share.
Just last night, we opened a bottle we'd been saving for years -- a 1997 Cabernet Franc, an Estate Wine from the Niebaum-Coppola vineyard (only available at the vineyard or from the company's website, if you’re lucky enough to live in a state to which it can ship). And it was…well, it was yummy. And a perfect way to celebrate our 20th wedding anniversary.
