by Serenata Wines

The prices of wine grapes in Australia are currently at low level, according to an article published by the Australian Broadcasting Corporation.

Although at a higher price than last year (2011), the average price for this years vintage was just $457 (AUD) per ton - the second-lowest in ten years.

Industry body The Winemakers Federation of Australia stated that profits would not return until more grape growers had left the wine industry.

The amount of 2012 vintages produced increased by four per cent - a figure kept down in a season hit by flooding in certain areas of Australia.

Meanwhile it was also reported that Shiraz production had increased by 16 per cent - overtaking Chardonnay production. The production of a greater amount of Shiraz has been attributed to the fact that last years Chardonnay vintage was hit by grapes soaked by the rain and infected with botrytis.

Production of Pinot Gris and muscat Gordo Blanco also increased - by 40 and 30 per cent respectively.

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