Global platform for buyers of Australian wine launches at end of month
By Fiona Holland
Australian wine is to receive a boost thanks to an online platform launching at the end of April which will enable international buyers to link up with key producers in Australia.
The launch of Australian Wine Connect comes at a time when the spotlight has never been greater on Australian wine exports after China, its former number one export market, placed huge tariffs ranging between 116% and 218% on any Australian wine being brought into the country.
As a result, the site needs to be all the more engaging with its international consumers, especially at a time when Australian borders are still closed and travelling for wine events is by no means back on the table. The first of its kind platform will be open to buyers in the UK, Europe, the US, Canada and Asia.
Through a series of online events and experiences, buyers will be able to explore wineries from 65 Australian regions, and will have the chance to virtually meet winemakers, other buyers, importers, distributors, media, and educators in the Australian wine world. Some of the forthcoming events, such as Connect Conversations, include a series of live gatherings such as quarterly keynotes panel discussions about what the future of drinking might look like, talks on some key wine varieties, and also online tastings for individual markets worldwide.
Wine Australia Chief Executive Officer Andreas Clark said: “This dynamic approach will no doubt foster hundreds of lasting relationships between Australian wine producers and international wine trade, and we are very excited to help facilitate these conversations”.
Over 230 exhibitors are already registered for the virtual exhibition with 1900 wines being showcased, and will be hosted by the Australian wine and drinks writer and trader Mike Bennie, who will lead discussions with local up and coming winemakers, as well as give viewers an introduction to the platform and what users can expect during the year.
After the program’s launch, there will already be another Connect Conversations event on 12 May, which features a Cabernet Sauvignon tasting with leading experts as well as tastings for pivotal wine markets across the globe.
The launch will take place on 27 April 2021 at 10am (BST) and 11am (CEST) – Register here.