A future study predicts China will be the leading producer of wine worldwide in 50 years time, with Australia being given the role of the major loser, according to the authors of the study.

In a study recently published, the British wine merchants Berry Bros & Rudd see China as being the most important wine-producing country in the world in the year 2058. It is predicted China will not only be the most important wine-growing nation in terms of volumes, but will also be able to equal Bordeaux in terms of quality. Other winners benefiting from changes in the climatic and economic situation will include the Ukraine, Croatia and Poland. Among the losers in 2058 will be Australia, with climatic conditions then being too hot for viticulture in many parts. (WF)