Only 2% of the world’s wines are aged in oak barrels. (Ed.: Only?) But for these 2% quite a few barrels are needed. France produced 670,000 barrels in 2018, an increase of 2%. 68% of the barrels went on export. The rest stayed in the French wine regions where demand is increasing, in part due to the fact that cognac is currently doing so well.
The United States is the largest buyer with 29% of the volume and 31% of the value. Spain is second with 7% and 6% respectively. Australia and Italy share third place with 6% each in volume and value. China has significantly increased its imports of French oak barrels.
Exports to China rose in 2018 by 20% in volume and 26% in value. It is also interesting to note that more and more large oak vessels are sold, so-called foudres.
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2 Responses
Hi,
Do you know how many oak wine barrels were imported into China in 2020?
Regards,
Hendrik
No, sorry, don’t know.