Sue tributes the recognition to the "fabulous hard working and creative team we have at WOSA, both in South Africa and abroad". She adds, “Currently South Africa exports more wines than it sells on the local market. In addition to this, South Africa only contributes 3% of the global wine production - acknowledgement like this award confirms our strong position in this arena."
Sue has been to India many times and has taken part in wine shows where she has been often seen pouring for the tasters. ‘I am very passionate about India and the wine growth there. I would love to come there again soon,’ she had told delWine at the cape Wine Show in South Africa last year. But due to prior engagements she could not visit the IFE-India in December 2008 and Andre Morganthal, the Communications manager opted to come instead.
Under her guidance and leadership, South Africa has made several strides in the Indian market. The continued policy of helping the exporters reach the Indian market d taking part in the wine market has resulted in over 30 South African labels being present, with many more in the pipeline as compared to just a few till 3-4 years back.
Johann Krige, the Chairman WOSA, said, "I find Su first and foremost a strategist. Coupled with an extremely strong business driven mindset and abundant energy, she has positioned WOSA as arguably the leading generic wine body in amongst others, the UK, Europe and Scandinavia. This was achieved with very limited funds and barely any Government support.
Eduardo Chadwick, the dynamic owner of Viña Errazuriz received the award for Special Contribution to the Drinks Industry in the same category. His wines are being imported by Ace Beveragez in India. During his visit last year, Indian Wine Academy had organized a special wine dinner with Errazuriz wines, when he had shown a keen interest in the development of Indian wine market. He is credited for doing a lot of work for improving the quality of Chilean wines and in the area of wine education, globally.
Michael Saunders, MD of the UK based wine distribution company Bibendum received the Man of the Year Award.
The Awards in three categories- Personality, Business and Marketing given by the Drinks Business International are announced at the London International Wine Fair (LIWF) held every year May; this year it was held from 12-15th. Though the attendance was lower this year by about 1000 people, it was well received by the exhibitors and the buyers alike
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