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2014 Review and Hopes and Fears for 2015: Wines of South Africa's Jo Wehring

Published:  23 December, 2014

Jo Wehring, UK market manager for Wines of South Africa, is already gearing up for 2015's Cape Wine, saying the "energy" behind South Africa's wines just keeps growing

WOSA's Jo WehringJo WehringJo Wehring, UK market manager for WOSA, believes Faritrade wine should be in wider distribution and should offer greater choice, including at higher price points.

Jo Wehring, UK market manager for Wines of South Africa, is already gearing up for 2015's Cape Wine, saying the "energy" behind South Africa's wines just keeps growing

How was 2014 for you/your business?

2014 saw wide trade awareness for the quality of South Africa's top wines as many global commentators suggested that South Africa is the most exciting new world wine producing country. Exports to the UK, the number one export market for South Africa's wines, remained strong, on the back of a bumper year in 2013. There is an energy and dynamism in the South African wine industry that keeps growing every year.

What do you think were the most significant things that happened/ issues/trends that occurred in 2014?

The WSTA's progress in engaging with government was significant and very positive.

What opportunities are you most looking forward to working on in 2015?

It's a Cape Wine year, which is hugely exciting for Wines of South Africa. We're already working on making this event the most important Southern hemisphere wine show and will be bringing people from across the globe to Cape Town in September, where the entire South African wine industry will be out in force, to welcome them.

What are the biggest challenges facing the trade in 2015?

Profitability in wine remains a challenge.

Who are the people/companies/retailers to watch in 2015?

The independent sector in the UK is very interesting, it's been great to see it flourishing and from a South African perspective it's now an area where we're able to sell premium wines, it's lifting the image of the whole category.

What are you doing for Christmas and New Year?

Time with the family for Christmas. I'll mainly be adopting the persona of a 'baddie' and fighting with various superheros, played expertly by my son. We're going to a very good friend's wedding for New Year. Whoop.

What will be your favourite tipple over Christmas and New Year?

A broad selection of awesome South African wines, of course.

Favourite Christmas film?

The Snowman.

Ideal day out over Christmas period?

Walking the dog in Richmond Park with the family and then lunch at the Lass O' Richmond Hill. That's my ideal day out any time of the year.

What do you want most from Father Christmas?

World peace.

New Year's resolution?

Do some filing.

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