Brazilian Winemakers Target Export Growth
Brazil is currently in the midst of an export drive, which it hopes will encourage wine drinkers around the world to try its bottles, working on the basis that overseas drinkers are often taken aback by the high standard of the wine it produces.
Last year, Brazil produced a total of 3.6 million hectolitres of wine, according to the figures prepared by the International Organisation of Vine and Wine, which is a small total compared to the giants of the wine world and the 12-13 million produced by both Argentina and Chile.
Unlike its South American counterparts, Brazil is not a country that many traditionally associate with wine. Much of the nation has tropical weather, where it is too hot and humid for growing vines. However, in its south, near the borders of Argentina and Uruguay, the climate is much more suited to wine production and Brazil now has a thriving wine industry, with more than 1,000 vineyards.
Export agency ‘Wines of Brazil’ is now working strategically with the government and vineyards to introduce Brazilian bottles to wine fairs and trade shows around the world. Instead of each winery having to afford the costs to promote its own wares, the agency covers this for them.
Many Brazilian vineyards recognise that it will take time and patience to build their exports to significant levels, and for the country to be fully recognised as international wine producers. However, they believe they are in the early stages of a successful journey and have confidence in their product.
Generally speaking, Brazilian wine is likely to be compared to that of its neighbours Argentina and Uruguay, the focus is mostly on reds, but the country has also developed a specialism for sparkling wines made in the same way as champagne.
