February 2014

Riverland Wine Grape Growers association has recently claimed that local growers will be $27 million worse off due to price cuts announced by wineries this season.

The association says that, based on winery prices, the farmgate income will drop from $113 million in 2013 to just $86 million this season. In a statement issued by the grower body, this year's income will be well below the $155 million average of the past 14 years.

The group's executive officer Chris Byrne, says this will have a huge impact on the region's economy.

Member for Chaffey Tim Whetstone said he wants answers from the wineries.

"I am seeking some clarity in the justification of price reductions, some of which have been flagged for up to 50 per cent" he said.

Prices for most varieties are between 15 and 20 per cent down this year. The Riverland produces 25 per cent of the nation's total wine grape production.