2016 grape harvest 'sensational'

The 2016 grape harvest has produced more premium fruit and is commanding higher prices.

Pinot Noir grapes hang on a vine

Australia's 2016 grape harvest has produced more premium fruit and is commanding higher prices. (AAP)

Australia's 2016 grape harvest has been a good one, with higher prices paid for wine grapes, and a bigger intake of fruit.

The wine sector's peak body, Wine Australia, says many in the wine sector are describing the 2016 vintage as "sensational".

The national crush is up six per cent to about 1.81 million tonnes, and the average price for wine grapes lifted 14 per cent to $526 per tonne - the highest average price since 2009.

The amount of premium fruit selling for more than $1,500 per tonne accounted for seven per cent of the total crush.

Wine Australia chief executive Andreas Clark said increased international enthusiasm for Australia's fine wines from the United States and China was helping to support stronger demand for premium grapes in Australia.

"The positivity for Australian fine wine is resonating within our key export markets, " Mr Clark said on Monday.

Prices for premium shiraz grapes rose by 14 per cent and premium cabernet sauvignon grapes by 17 per cent.


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Source: AAP


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