New Zealand wine exports continue to exhibit impressive growth reaching a record NZ $766 million (US $582 million) in MY 2007/08, up 36% from the previous year. A decade ago, wine exports were valued at just NZ $100 million (US $76 million) - roughly comparable to onion and squash exports. The Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (MAF) and the New Zealand Wine Growers expect exports to exceed NZ $1 billion (US $760 million) in the near future. Onion exports are still similar to where they were a decade ago. With increased domestic supply, the challenge for the New Zealand wine industry is to expand export opportunities. Domestic opportunities are limited by the population size of just 4.2 million people.

A decade ago, exports accounted for just 15% of total production. By MY 2007/08, exports accounted to an impressive 65%. Many attribute the export success of the New Zealand wine industry to the production of top quality branded wines that have a fresh appeal in the marketplace and command a premium price. The success of this strategy is evidenced by the decline in generic white wine exports, which accounted for 4.7% of total exports in 2003 and now account for just 1.1%.
 

Sauvignon Blanc continues to be the dominant export varietal accounting for approximately 75% of total exports. While exports of Pinot Noir and other varietals have jumped considerably, New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc enjoys a strong international reputation and is expected to be the dominant export for the foreseeable future.