The country's top three export markets are Australia, worth NZ$380.8 million; USA at NZ$328 million and UK at NZ$318.6 million. The next biggest contender is Canada, which is significantly smaller and valued at NZ$78.9 million.

According to New Zealand Winegrowers annual report for 2014, "North America and Northern Europe are where the fastest growth is happening?With USA seeing growth of 16% in the past 12 months and the Netherlands and Germany up 33% and 52% respectively. This is balanced by a slowdown in China and Hong Kong; but New Zealand Winegrowers insists the "potential in these markets is undiminished".

The UK market has seen the average price per bottle grow 11% in the past year to ?.27.

New Zealand's wine industry is feeling confident about the year ahead

The country is seeing strongest growth in Northern Europe and the USA, and is forecasting increased demand following its bumper harvest.

Steve Green, chair of New Zealand Winegrowers, said last year's strong sales meant stocks need replenishing, especially given even stronger demand is now being forecast. The 2014 harvest was a new record for New Zealand coming in at 445,000 tonnes of grapes, which Green said "signals the drive for export growth in the year ahead."Marlborough produced 330,000 tonnes.

The group's annual member survey showed that 80% of wineries and growers are positive about the year ahead. This confidence is demonstrated in a lift in vineyard and infrastructure development in the past 12 months.

Green said continued commitment to quality, integrity and protecting the national reputation is the foundation of New Zealand wine's iconic status. "Consistently meeting consumer expectations for premium New Zealand wines will take us a long way. Being the most sought after and highly valued must be our aspiration to ensure a bright future."