The leading Chinese producer, Changyu has just inaugurated Château Changyu Aifeibao International. With its 120 hectares (nearly 300 acres), this prestigious estate in the Beijing area has production and tourist activities. (Source: VSB)

The 2008 harvest in Bordeaux started on the 5^Th of September in Pessac Leognan bringing in the first Sauvignon Blanc grapes, ten days later than last year. Harvest dates all over the region are around two weeks behind usual, due to a lack of sunshine throughout the growing season. Pessac Leognan is traditionally the earliest appellation in the region to start the harvest. (Source: Decanter.com)

Michel Reybier, owner of Chateau Cos d’Estournel, classified grand cru Saint-Estèphe, acquired for an undisclosed amount the castle Montelena, a wine property of 80 hectares located in California.The transaction represents an investment very important, perhaps the largest ever observed for a Bordeaux abroad. (Source: AFP)

In view of the world market trend towards a greater demand for quality wines, Chilean producers seek to position their offering more strongly in the premium or organic segments, while investing in innovation and technology. The majority of Chilean exports are now made up of bottled AOC wines, which represent 50% of the volume of all exported products and 80% of their value. (Source: VITI)

Exports of Burgundy wines were 3% down in volume (22 million bottles) in the first quarter of 2008 compared to 2007. However, because of price increases and exchange rates, the export sales turnover increased by more than 4.5%, up €6.2 million. (Source: VSB)

Australia’s wine exports have fallen in volume and value for the first time in 14 years. Shipments for 2007-2008 totalled 702.1 million litres, a 12 per cent decrease for the past financial year. Value was 11 per cent lower at $2.657 billion, Australian Wine and Brandy Corporation data shows. (Source: Herald Sun)

Wine sales in Columbia grew by 17% in 2007, reaching €63 million. The leading suppliers are Chile with 40% and Argentina, 20%. (Source: VSB)