Spanish wine export data first half 2006

Yesterday, the Spanish Wine Federation (FEV) released a report on the export trends for Spanish wines in the first half of 2006. The data confirms the trends established during the first 5 months of the year (see previous report):

Bulk wines are down from the same period one year ago (by 10% in volume shipped and 5% in total value of shipments) as main importers France and Italy cut back on purchases. Bottled wines from D.O.'s are up (by 11.5% in volume and 13.6% in value). The value of bottled exports more than offset losses in bulk exports to result in a total positive movement in value of plus 5%, but total volume of wines shipped dropped by 7%.

Notable details are:

• The volume of bottled D.O. white wines rose by 20% (and 8% in value), meaning that export markets are buying up more economical whites.
• Bottled red and rosados (which are combined for statistical purposes) is up by 8% in volume and 15% in value, meaning buyers seem to moving up to higher value reds.
• Cava is progressing nicely with volume up by 3% and value up by 4%.
• And as reported earlier in Tempranillo, vinos de aguja (slightly sparking wines) have continued their explosive growth: up 514% in volume and 178% in value.

All in all, these trends seem positive as Spain eases its reliance on bulk exports and more firmly establishes its high value wines abroad.