The launch of the Laurenti Merlot Cabernet-Sauvignon marks the completion of Camilleri Wines' first range of premium products.

Laurenti Chardonnay was the first in the range and it was launched last year.

"This premium range marks a first for Camilleri Wines because this is our first fully-grown Maltese product - a product that is making Maltese wine lovers, and Malta, proud," Louie Camilleri, general manager of Camilleri Wines, said.

Rural Affairs and Environment Minister George Pullicino lauded Camilleri Wines' active efforts in helping to raise the standards of the Maltese wine industry.

He said the island should be proud of its legacy when it comes to the production of Maltese wines as these have now reached a very high quality level that can easily compete with the foreign product.

Camilleri Wines have produced about 10,500 bottles of Laurenti Red.

"The quality and the richness of this premium wine shows our declared commitment towards a steady and continued effort to achieve quality and prestige," Mr Camilleri said.

"Five years ago, the company opted for a shift in strategy, a shift from high volumes to lower volumes that, in turn, could yield a higher quality of product - from medium to top premium wines. Our Laurenti range is the result of a collective effort to achieve this goal and this proves that Camilleri Wines can face its market challenges and offer the public superior products."

In 2001, Camilleri Wines started planting their first 50 tumoli of vines followed by another 50 tumoli a year later. Camilleri Wines have 500,000 vines spread over 1,000 tumoli all over Malta and Gozo, managed by contracted family vine growers under the guidance of the company's viticulturist Patrick Xerri.