Some of the country’s smaller wineries could face challenges in distribution deals, and potential buy-outs from larger estates. Photo: Viv MilsomA caution has been thrown out to New Zealand’s smaller, domestic market wineries which might be finding it more difficult gaining access to distribution channels. "Like other New Zealand primary product, exports form the backbone of the wine industry," Mrs Boniface said. "This could see a smaller number of boutique independent grape growers as well as fewer, larger, wineries," Mrs Boniface said. Mrs Boniface said in 2017 there were just over 710,000 visitors to New Zealand wineries, "cellar door" tasting rooms and/or staying at vineyard accommodation.

Source: Otago Daily Times February 10, 2019 15:33 UTC