U.S. whisky exports reach $698.5m in first half 2017

The total value of U.S. spirits exports during the first half of 2017 jumped 10.6 percent to $698.5 million compared with the same period last year, according to recent data from the Distilled Spirits Council.    Many overseas consumers still have taste for premium U.S. whiskey.
   According to the Distilled Spirits Council, the value of U.S. spirits exports during the first half of 2017 reached $698.5 million, a 10.6 percent increase over the same period last year.
   The council noted that the biggest rise in spirits exports was experienced with American whiskeys, including Kentucky Bourbon, Tennessee Whiskey and American Rye, which increased by about $27 million to $464.6 million, or up 6.1 percent, during the first half of this year.
   Exports of other American spirits categories also increased in dollar terms during the first six months of 2017, according to the council. These include brandy, up 39.4 percent or $12.2 million to $43.45 million; vodka, up 51.2 percent or $11.4 million to $33.6 million; and rum, up 49.5 percent or $5.2 million to $18.55 million.  
   The largest import growth markets for U.S. spirits include the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Brazil, Panama and Japan, along with Italy, Poland, Latvia and Chile showing promising gains, the council noted.
   “Around the world, adult consumers are seeking out American spirits because of their diversity of flavors and styles, mixability and authentic heritage,” Christine LoCascio, the council’s senior vice president for international trade, said in a statement.
   Canada remains the single largest market for U.S. spirits exports, which were valued at $87.6 million for the first half of 2017, while Mexico is the 10th largest export market, with sales totaling $18.4 million over the same period.