The New Zealand wine industry has continued to prosper, with export values reaching $1.66 billion in 2016. The United States demand for New Zealand wine has steadily increased in recent years and has led it to become the third most valuable wine import after French and Italian products. The most popular varietal is Sauvignon Blanc, closely followed by Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
In the hopes of further improving the industry, the country recently passed the Geographical Indications (Wine and Spirits) Registration Act, which would better protect their regional identities and provide more sustainable winegrowing. Wine is New Zealand’s fifth largest goods export and is expected to reach an export value of $2 billion by 2020.
Source: Stuff, August 2017