Skalli to focus on premium wines

Southern French producer Skalli is to focus its efforts on premium wine production in future in a bid to meet the challenges of changing market priorities.

"We’re experiencing very strong growth in newer markets in the Far East where Skalli has become the benchmark for premium southern French wines. In 2010 sales grew by more than 60% in China alone,” said president Robert Skalli.

"But more mature markets such as Europe and the UK have been more heavily affected by the global economic crisis. Our new structure and focus will ensure we are best placed to drive further growth in these more challenging regions."

All of Skalli’s lines will remain on sale in the UK. Sales of its fine wines, including St Supery, Domaine de Silene and Clos Poggiale, grew by 36% in volume in the UK over the past 12 months, and its Rhône Valley brand Caves Saint Pierre grew by 18% in volume over the same period.

Lucy Shaw, 28.02.2011