The Family Of Twelve will be presenting a wine portfolio at:

Hilton Dublin Hotel, Charlemont Place
Thursday 15th May, 2008 – 13:00 – 18:00

New Zealand’s Wine Family – an export-focused marketing alliance of twelve New Zealand winemakers was launched in New Zealand in 2005. Adopting a name which reflects both the cooperative spirit and private ownership, The Family kicked off its export initiative with events three years ago in San Francisco, New York & London. This year the family will be visiting Dublin, Chicago and Australia (Brisbane , Sydney, Melbourne) The wineries involved encompass wine regions throughout New Zealand and make wine from almost every major grape variety. Six are from the North Island and six from the South. The Family of 12’s first Chairman, Richard Riddiford, said the concept evolved as all the best ideas do over a glass of wine.

“We are a group of producers who enjoy one another’s company, who like and respect one another’s wines and philosophies, and who can make quick decisions. The people behind these established and respected brands bring a wealth of experience, knowledge and energy not to mention consistently outstanding wines to the table. With premium quality wines from each of our major regions we can show­case the diversity and quality of New Zealand wine in an effective and targeted way. It’s a very crowded market out there and New Zealand needs fresh, new approaches to grab the attention of busy wine­buyers and consumers. As a group we have far more potency. Each of us is committed to fine wine and it’s refreshing to work with generous-spirited, fun, intelligent and creative people. We are dedicated to continually pushing the boundaries of excellence, and we hope ultimately to stimulate demand for ALL New Zealand wine.”

Leading the group is the current appointed chair Paul Brajkovich, who in January 2007 took over from Richard Riddiford. Paul comes to the group with a wealth of experience from his role in the family business at Kumeu River Winery.

“Richard has done a fantastic job in setting the Family of Twelve up the whole concept has worked better than any of us might have hoped.” says Paul.

Ireland is a key market for New Zealand wine producers. According to MAT New Zealand Winegrowers export figures 1.34 million litres were exported to Ireland in 2007. Ireland now represents 1.6% of New Zealand’s exports. Exports to Ireland are now worth approximately 6.72 million. Irish trade figures to December 2007 show New Zealand wines as being the fastest growing country of origin with volume sales of New Zealand wine in Ireland increasing by 40% in 2007. viagra