Australian wine exports to China rebounded last year as sales of cheaper wines gained traction, bucking a regional shift towards high-end tipples.

Australian government data shows total wine exports to China rose eight per cent last year to 40 million litres, valued at €136 million. That’s a significant turnaround from 2013 when wine exports plunged 16 per cent.

The revival was driven by sales of the low-value €1.75-€3.49 segment, following the introduction of tough austerity measures in China in late 2012. In contrast, Asia accounted for more than 90 per cent of Australia’s ultra-premium wine exports –

above €35 a litre – according to data from the Australian Grape and Wine Authority.

The Australian industry has placed its faith in premium wines, increasing production of high-end tipples as a global wine glut combined with reduced orders from major economies prompted the international market to shrink.

Overall Australian wine exports rose 1.9 per cent in both volume and value last year to 700 million litres, or €1.27 billion – the first increase in value since the global recession took hold in 2007.

The rise was backed by strong demand for premium wines in North America and Europe as well as Asia.