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UK marketing effort helps Oregon boost wine exports by 50%

Published:  25 August, 2015

Oregon winemakers have singled out the UK as a major contributor to a 50% leap in wine exports for the US state.

Ellen Brittan, chairwoman of the Oregon Wine Board said the increase in 2014 was an indication that the state's investment in marketing effort was paying off, particularly in the UK, along with Asia, Canada and Scandinavia.

"Oregon wine enjoyed another headliner year across the board, fuelled by consumer demand," Brittan said. "Market and sales trends continue to validate the growing acceptance of the exceptional quality wine being produced in all regions of the state."

Overall sales were up 14% to A$430 million (£272.9 million) over the year.

Production rose 39% to more than 78,000 tons according to the OWB's 2014 Oregon Vineyard & Winery Census Report, the third consecutive year of double digit production growth.

The number of vineyards topped 1,000 for the first time, up 8% to 1,027, and planted acreage was 14% up on 2013. Winery numbers rose from 605 to 676.

Pinot Noir led production with 45,239 tons, up 58% and representing 40% of the total. Pinot Gris was the second most heavily planted variety.

The North Willamette Valley saw production increase by 41% and now represents almost two-thirds of all production.

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