THE U.S. IS EXPECTED TO OVERTAKE FRENCH WINES IN BRITAIN

U.S. wine sales will soon surpass France as the second largest import for the U.K. With a continued double-digit growth rate and France’s downward spiral, the gap is closing in at a steady rate. U.S. wine sales, led by California, grew approximately 15% during the first 11 months of 2005, almost as high as the previous year’s 20% increase. During the same 11 months in 2005, French wine sales decreased 3%, and if the trend continues, the U.S. will surpass France by the end of the year. Australian wines remain #1 in Britain and continue to exhibit a healthy growth rate. According to the Wine Spectator, the U.K. is the top export market for California wines, mainly due to a growing interest in rosé wines and varietals. Diageo and E&J Gallo Winery do especially well with “strong distribution and good shelf placement in major retail outlets.”