Reputation key for local vineyards (NZ)

The reputation of Central Otago wine, along with a carefully limited volume of fruit and good marketing, is keeping the industry alive in the region despite signs it is facing tough times in other parts of New Zealand. The twice-yearly survey by business advisers Markhams said adverse weather, bulk wine sales and exchange rates were “dealing blows to an already fragile industry”. A lack of confidence in government policy and vagaries of fruit supply were adding to the situation. However, the survey showed that 67% of Central Otago respondents were positive about the coming year, reports Otago Daily Times.