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Weingut Robert Weil launches Riesling for Chinese market
Germany’s Weingut Robert Weil has tapped into the growing thirst for Riesling in China with the release of its Saphir wine into the market.
Robert Weil, the fifth-generation of Weingut Robert Weil, made an inaugural visit to China this month to unveil Saphir to the market.
The German winery, which was founded in 1875, is tapping into a surge in the popularity of German Riesling in China’s recovering wine market.
German wines have experienced an uptick in demand from global markets this year, according to the German Wine Institute. For the two-month period from April 2023 to March 2024, exports of German wines totalled 1.17 million hectolitres with a value of €392m, which represents an increase in value of 4.1% compared to the same period in the previous year, with volumes remaining stable.
Exports to China grew significantly, increasing 47% in value and 39% in volume in the first quarter of this year.
Weil was hosted in the market by ASC Fine Wines, the exclusive importer and distributor for Mainland China and Hong Kong, which put on a number of wine dinners and tastings in Hong Kong, Guangzhou, Shanghai, and Beijing to mark the visit.
ASC Fine Wines and Robert Weil presented the debut of Saphir in China, which will be officially launched later in autumn to support the celebration of the National Day holiday in China.
Makoto Nagae, CEO of ASC, said of the visit: “As the Chinese market continues to embrace the elegance and complexity of German wines, Robert Weil stands at the forefront of this growing trend.”
Weingut Robert Weil joined ASC’s parent company, drink giant Suntory Group, in 1988. The estate has expanded from 18 to 90 hectares over the past 35 years. The winery produces Rieslings with varying levels of sweetness, from sparkling and dry to noble and sweet variations, and has released 33 consecutive vintages of Trockenbeerenauslese.
“We are absolutely thrilled to introduce Saphir to the Chinese market,” said Robert Weil. “Saphir represents a contemporary interpretation of Robert Weil’s legacy of impeccable quality and consistency, crafted entirely from 100% Riesling. The label design draws inspiration from the exquisite paintings of lilies and ivy adorning the ceiling of our estate house’s dome, built in 1906. This blend of modern elegance and nostalgic charm encapsulates the essence of Saphir. The name ‘Saphir’ pays homage to our iconic Weil Blue, underscoring the rich heritage and enduring tradition of our winery. It will be officially available in the China market shortly.”
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