– Major success for Austrian wine exports to Asia: the Austrian Tasting in Tokyo 2025, hosted by the Austrian Wine Marketing Board (Austrian Wine) on 22 July, attracted more than 600 wine professionals from the Japanese retail sector, hospitality industry and media. Once again, the great enthusiasm among visitors confirms the popularity of Austrian wine – even on the other side of the globe.
Some 100 Austrian wineries took part in the event, with 35 winegrowers attending in person and others represented by their importers. The Japanese wine professionals were able to taste more than 500 wines, enjoy in-depth discussions and identify new business opportunities. Highlights of the event were the two fully-booked masterclasses, each attended by 80 participants and expertly led by Master of Wine Ken Ohashi and Takinori Beppu – two of the most influential voices of the Japanese wine scene.
Austria is flying the flag in Asia’s most important market
“Japan is our largest export market in Asia. 45% of all wine exports to this region are destined for Japan,” explains Chris Yorke, CEO of Austrian Wine. “This is why it is so important to have a local presence. The overwhelming number of visitors and the great interest they showed are proof that Austrian wines are well-established in Japan – and still have great potential.”
Winegrowers give a thumbs up: interest, contacts, contracts
Feedback from participating winegrowers includes reports of in-depth conversations, a great deal of interest among visitors and the conclusion of valuable contracts.
Diana Müller, from the Kremstal: “So many visitors knew our wines well and truly appreciated them – it was an incredible tasting event. There was nothing left to taste by the end!”
Pia Strehn, from Mittelburgenland: “It was extremely exciting. There was so much interest. I’ll definitely bring more information in Japanese with me next time. I had some very in-depth conversations.”
Katharina Gessl, from the Weinviertel: “My goal was to find an importer – and that’s exactly what I did! I’ve even received my first order. It was a major success for me!”
