Vines planted in 1856, Mudgee Wines from New South Wales has set its footholds in the domestic market and is aspired to further establish its presence in different parts of the world, with Hong Kong and the Chinese Mainland among its priorities.

The company has taken part in the HKTDC Hong Kong International Wine & Spirits Fair in 2009 and joined the New South Wales Wine Promotion Trade Mission in May 2010 to attend the HKTDC Business Matching Meetings with Hong Kong wine traders interested in Australian wine.

"The Meetings are terrific as we have generated a lot of interest. I believe the Hong Kong companies are attracted by our history, quality brand, as well as wide varieties with different vintages ranging from rare wines to good selections," enthused Ms. Jane McLean, Manager of Mudgee Wines, adding possibly five out of the six companies which she met might lead to sales.

Among the 'hopefuls' was a Hong Kong company which Mudgee Wines first met at the Hong Kong International Wine & Spirits Fair 2009.

"That company flew over to Sydney to visit us after the Fair and this time our meeting went smoothly and hopefully this company will buy 1/3 of container load of wine from us," noted Ms. McLean.

"Relationship building is important to us when searching the right partner, it is good that we can ride on the Business Matching Service to extend our relationship since last Wine & Spirit Fair with this potential customer, as well as touch base with more new contacts, we will also consider exhibiting at the Wine & Spirit Fair 2010 to take advantage of the year-round service of HKTDC." continued Ms. McLean.

In fact, Ms. McLean was quite impressed by Hong Kong and might think of setting up a branch office in the SAR.

"First of all, it is tax-free for the import and export of wine here. Also, Hong Kong is a regional hub with very friendly business environment, and most importantly with proximity to the emerging wine market in the Mainland, which offers immense opportunities," highlighted Ms. McLean.