EXCESS GRAPE CRUSH BOOSTS NZ PRESENCE IN THE U.S.

The New Zealand Wine Co. has increased grape production by 50% to just under 1500 tons this season. The winemaker says it had a record 2006 grape crush of less than 3000 tons in total, the rest of which came from other suppliers. According to the company, production increases resulted from new plantings and an overall improvement in yields which will help them grow in U.S. and British markets. In January, the company reported a 4.1% increase in half-year profits.