Brandy-Making In N.Z. Not Considered To Be Economic

Press, Volume XCVII, Issue 28699, 24 September 1958, Page 19

Brandy-Making In N.Z. Not Considered To Be Economic

(New Zealand Press Association)

AUCKLAND, Sept. 23. The Viticulture and Wine Advisory Committee does not consider the production of brandy in New Zealand is an economic proposition. The committee is holding its second meeting since it was formed by the Government at the beginning of the year. Mr A. M. W. Greig, director of the Horticulture Division of the Department of Agriculture, who is chairman of the committee, said the general intention was to hold a meeting every three oc four months in the grape-grow-ing districts of Auckland and Hastings and in Wellington. He explained that besides studying the problems of the industries, the committee provided a channel of' communication between the grape-growers and wine-makers and the Government research and advisory officers. It was also concerned with legislation affecting the wine industry. The meeting had been called in Auckland this time, said Mr Greig, to coincide with the annual wine-judging contest organised by the Department of In-

dustries and Commerce in Auckland and members of the com•mittee.

Mr K. W. Davies, of the Department of Industries and Commerce, said this was the second contest the department had held to encourage the production of prestige wines for sale in New Zealand and overseas. Entries, which were restricted to commercial lines, had been received from all over the country. “The interest of the growers has been very satisfying,’’ said Mr Davies, “and the conclusion can be drawn that the industry is keen to increase its production of prestige wines.”