Argentina
For years considered to be the 'sleeping giant' of the Southern Hemisphere, Argentina is now very much awake with exports to world markets increasing by over 50% in the last two years. Total annual wine output is the equivalent of Chile, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand combined... more details

Australia
Despite its huge landmass, Australia is quite a small producer in volume terms with only 123,000 ha. under vine. In terms of quality and marketing prowess it has made a huge impact on world markets and caused many 'Old World' producers to sit up and take note. An ability to produce such consistently good varietal wines has been the envy of many... more details

Austria
Primarily a white wine producer, Austria has moved well to distance itself from past scandals and now operates one of the strictest quality control regimes in the world. The fresh, fruity varietal wines and notably, the late harvest 'botrytised*' wines are regular winners at international wine fairs and provide excellent value for money... more details

Bulgaria
The commercial success of Bulgarian wines dates back to 1970. This was assisted by the world famous wine department at the University of Davis California which succeeded in promoting what is now known as a 'global' quality product. International wine lovers could recognise the familiar French and German grape varietals such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Riesling and Chardonnay. These varietals were accompanied by the Bulgarian indigenous grapes such as the black Gamza, Mavrud, and Melnik, and the white Misket and Dimiat.... more details

Chile
Renowned world-wide for its excellent, upfront varietal wines from the 'classic' grape varieties, Chile now exports 50% of its production to world markets. One of the few countries not to be ravaged by phylloxeria*, Chile has capitalised on its unique location and micro-climates, with the cool air from the Andes tempering the hot sunshine and creating the ideal growing conditions for grapes... more details

France
The largest producer of quality wine in the world and home to some of the most expensive and sought after names. Although under pressure on world markets from 'new world' varietals, French exports continue to grow. The range, style and quality of wines continue to impress, no more so than in the 'vin de pays' regions with their diversity and value. There is more to France than Bordeaux!.. more details

Germany
Still waiting to be discovered, Germany has so much more to offer than 'Liebfraumilch'. Here the Riesling grape gives of its best to produce wines of sublime concentration, elegance and finish. We just need to get to know and appreciate them. Developments continue with dryer styles of wine (trocken) and labelling is becoming distinctly more user-friendly... more details

Hungary
The home of 'Bull's Blood' and 'Tokay Aszú', Hungary is just becoming a modern wine producing country with substantial new investment in its wineries, winemaking techniques and vineyard management. Some excellent varietal wines are emerging and, of course, there is still the 'Tokay'... more details

Italy
The world's largest wine producing country, Italy creates a myriad of wine styles from light sweet sparklers to big robust chewy reds with some stunning dessert and fortified styles in between. It is home to Chianti, Barolo and Vapolicella to name but a few, with some excellent new arrivals coming from the South... more details

Lebanon
Most of the wines in Lebanon come from the Bekaa Valley - a high plain located between two mountain ranges at an altitude of 800 m. This valley is renowned for its rich soils, climate and vines. Conditions there are ideal for vines as its is endowed by year round sunshine, high altitude and no summer rainfalls, thus minimising the need for early harvests with little risk of disease... more details

New Zealand
The cooler climate and maritime influences of New Zealand make it an ideal location for fine white wines as can be witnessed in its Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay varietals. Although still a small producer, New Zealand's wine exports continue to grow and sales to Europe last year rose by over 50%... more details

Portugal
A country which prides itself in its indigenous grape varieties, Portugal has been slow to adopt the major European classics such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay etc. As a result we see wines with regional character and individuality and that certain rustic charm. Portugal is also home to the world's most renowned sweet fortified wine - Port... more details

South Africa
Boasting a near perfect climate and ripening conditions, South Africa has emerged as a major player on the world stage. The recent privatisation of the KWV co-operative and the emergence of single estate wines have done much to boost the image and quality of South African wines, no more so than with its speciality wine, Pinotage... more details

Spain
The wines of Rioja and Jerez (Sherry) have always been famous, but Spain has now emerged as a country with a diverse and interesting range of quality wines from its many diverse and individual regions. Areas like Penedes, Navarra, Rueda and Valdepenas are vying with the famous Rioja wines for supremacy. Value allied to quality, style and character are the hallmarks of Spanish wines... more details

United States
The heart of U.S.A. wine production is in California, accounting as it does for over 90% of total output. U.S.A. wine exports have more than doubled in the last two years with a strong emphasis on quality and varietal characteristics. Gone, thankfully, are the many 'jug' wines with varietals like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Chardonnay working alongside the revamped and much improved Zinfandel... more details