U.S. wine exports grew 10.6% in value last year, resulting in $1.44 billion in total revenue according to Wine Institute. California wine represents 95% of all exported wine. It was the largest jump in exports since 2013.
“While we continue to see some challenges in the international marketplace for U.S. wine exports, we’re encouraged that export data shows a trend toward countering the impact of the global pandemic, retaliatory tariffs, unfavorable exchange rates and other external circumstances,” said Honore Comfort, vp-international marketing. “We’re moving the needle for larger gains in the future with a goal to boost the Golden State’s wine exports by $2.5 billion over the next decade.”
Wine Institute compiles its report with information from Trade Data Monitor and the U.S. Department of Commerce.
“We are very pleased to see our exports return to growth after several challenging years and we are grateful for the Biden administration’s diligent work to address a number of trade irritants,” said Bobby Koch, Wine Institute president/CEO. “We urge the administration to continue working to expand market access for our wines through free trade agreements in key markets such as the United Kingdom.”
International Markets
Canada, the largest export market for U.S. wines with 35.6% market share, was a significant driver of export growth, gaining 11.5% in value over the prior year. Eight of the 10 largest markets for U.S. wine exports saw value gains in 2021. While there were volume declines in various markets that drove an overall 9% drop, the value data is the key indicator of growth, given the wide price ranges of a bottle of wine. Declines in markets such as the United Kingdom and European Union were driven by shipping challenges sparked by global supply chain issues.
