It is March 19, 2009. My trip in Chile just ended, I’m still thinking about it continuously as it was so impressive. But I do not have enough time to relive my memories, because another exclusive wine event is on the planning. I’m invited to attend the Vinexpo in The Hague. When I arrived at the Churchill Square in The Hague I was embraced by the springtime sunshine.

The Vinexpo was organized in the World Forum Convention Center. A presentation was held about the figures of the progress in the consumption of wine and distillate. The wine consumption in The Netherlands has increased with 10.57% between 2003 and 2007. For the period between 2008 and 2012 a growth of 4.47% is predicted. At this expo people talk about liters, at the moment the consumption is 28.9 liters per capita to 29.3 liters in 2012 to more white (including bubbles) and red wine consumption.

France is still the main wine supplier with 49% of imports. Followed by Chile and South Africa, even Germany. The grain alais grape increases its popularity. There is a clear amount, which is slightly less drunk but also slightly more expensive. Next to wines, Vodka and Gin are the popular distillates. A trend that has been noticed is the increased consumption of different types of sake. Sake is popular the the moment! The Japanese restaurants Yamazato & Sazanka of Hotel Okura Amsterdam recently opened a Sake Lounge, where restaurant guests can await there table in Japanese style and discover the most beautiful sakes.

I will get back to you soon with the latest wine developments.

On behalf of the entire team of Ciel Bleu,

Noël Vanwittenbergh