Germany’s summer schedule hots up

The German Wine Institute has one space remaining for a UK buyer or importer to take part in a trip to the country next month.

Taking place from 12-15 May 2013, the trip will bring together wine buyers and importers from around the world for a tasting in Germany.

This will be followed by the opportunity to hold one-to-one meetings with up to eight producers of particular interest, as well as winery visits to the Rheingau and Rheinhessen regions.

The one remaining UK space will be allocated on a first come, first served basis. Interested UK buyers or importers should contact the Wines of Germany team, either by email: germanwine@thisisphipps.com, or phone: +44 (0)207 759 7405.

Meanwhile throughout July, Wines of Germany will build upon last year’s “31 Days of Riesling” campaign by organising a series of trade and consumer initiatives across the UK.

The generic body will be working with wine bars, restaurants, independent merchants and online retailers to showcase German Riesling, with the help of POS materials, including branded chalk boards and even temporary tattoos. The most successful displays will receive money to be spent on new German wine listings.

This promotion will be supported by a media campaign and interactive micro-site, where consumers can find out which outlets in their area are taking part, as well as enter a competition to win a trip to Germany.

“Last year around 50 restaurants and retailers around the country got stuck in to the 31 Days of German Riesling and this year’s campaign is set to be even bigger,” said Wines of Germany’s UK managing director, Nicky Forrest.

“We’re aiming to show consumers how great these wines are by encouraging restaurants and retailers to show German Riesling in a different light, through a dynamic and fun sales approach.”

So far 35 businesses have signed up to take part, including Averys, Laithwaites and London on-trade venues The Jugged Hare and The Kensington Wine Rooms.

The deadline to register is 31 May, but for more information contact: germanwine@thisisphipps.com