(TDB) - The growing popularity of Australian wine in China means the nation is now Australia’s great wine hope and the market it will prioritise this year.

Value sales are up by an impressive 40% in mainland Chine, while year on year volume sales are up even further – by 45%. While the UK remains Australia’s number on market by volume sales, it is no longer top for value sales, having been overtaken by China.

However, exports to the UK suffered their biggest hit at the bulk end of the market, while premium wine sales enjoyed growth. Australian wine exports to the UK at AU$10/litre and above grew by 25% to $28 million, while exports below $5/litre dipped by 10% to 287 million.

The UK remains the number one market in Europe for Australian wine, followed by Germany, The Netherlands, Denmark and Sweden. Across the pond, value sales of Australian wine are up by 3% in the US.