Gad Pettersson and Marie Hultin of Systembolaget, Sweden’s government-owned chain of liquor stores, arrived in Orange on Saturday, following visits to Margaret River and Canberra.

They visited Highland Heritage Estate, Colmar Estate, Philip Shaw Wines, Orange Mountain Wines and Cumulus Wines before leaving for Mudgee on Monday, followed by the Hunter Valley.

Mr Pettersson said Swedes averaged 30 litres of wine consumption a year, compared to Australia’s 20 litres. 

“They like quite generous-tasting wine, lots of fruit and a softer tannin structure,” he said.

Ms Hultin was impressed with the rieslings and pinot noirs she tasted.

“The high altitude is something nobody else really does in Australia,” she said.

Based on their findings on taste, price and available volumes, Systembolget may issue a tender for wine from the region. 

Highland Heritage and Cumulus have exported wines to Sweden in the past.

D’Aquino Group of Companies international exports director Robbie Robinson said it was exciting to have the pair visit on Monday.

“It’s the first time they’ve been to Orange,” he said. 

“Sweden is a small country, but they’re well-educated and on the fringe of Europe and a lot of other countries like Chile, Argentina and America are all looking for a part of the Swedish market.” 

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