KIWIS QUAFF MORE DOMESTIC WINE

NEW ZEALAND winemakers are grabbing a rising share of their domestic market, the latest figures reveal. During the calendar year 2008, Kiwis drank 51.6 million litres of New Zealand wine, up nearly 6 per cent since 2007. Meanwhile, bulk wine imports dropped by 35 per cent in the second half of 2008, reflecting the huge volume of New Zealand wine produced in 2008 and the downward pressure on its price. Pinot noir from the bumper 2008 vintage in Central Otago is expected to be widely available soon in cleanskins for under $NZ10. Already, Central Otago pinot noir can be purchased for $NZ14.95, while Marlborough sauvignon blanc is available at $NZ6.99 and Martinborough pinot noir at $NZ14.99.