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Wine exports up 5.5% in 2011
Israel Export Institute says wine exports came to $26.7 million in 2011; Israeli wines gain new foothold in Asian markets
Israel's wine industry recorded a successful year in 2011 as wine exports grew by 5.5%, the Israel Export & International Cooperation said Wednesday.
According to an IEI report released ahead of ISRAWINEXPO 2012, the wine industry's overseas sales came to $26.7 million in 2011.
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ISRAWINEXPO is an international exhibition for the wine industry, wine-makers, importers, investors, buyers, restaurateurs and sommeliers. The exhibition's 2011 edition was attended by over 20,000 people.
"In the past, Israeli wine exports were based largely on kosher wines, but today, our wines garner international attention and recognition," Michal Meeman of IEI said.
According to the IEI, the wine industry's top-five export destinations are: The United States ($12.2 million, +0.5%), France ($2.7 million, -11%), the UK ($1.4 million, +9.6%), Canada ($1 millnio, +4.6%) and Poland ($900,000, +63%).
Exports to the European Union added 3% in 2011 and amounted to $8 million.
The IEI said that Israeli wines are now starting to gain a following in Asia as well – the market noted a 66% growth in 2011, with exports coming to $1.1 million.
There are currently 35 commercial wineries in Israel and over 250 boutique wineries. Israel's own wine market sees annual revenues of $200 million.
