ETHIOPIA – Awash Wine S.C., an Ethiopian winery and pioneer in the industry, has launched a new wine cocktail in the market, Dankira, after investing US$2 million in expanding its production capacity.
The company’s investment in the expansion project entailed a new state of the art production facility located in Addis Ababa.
The expansion has enabled the winery to triple its annual production capacity. “This includes bottle washers, fillers and corkers as well as a capsule sealer and dryer to achieve even higher quality control.
“The new line, which is highly efficient and reduces waste in the wine making processes operated by a local experienced and skilled.
“This ensures that the winery can meet future consumer demands and anticipated business growth” the company said in a statement.
The new wine, Dankira is a wine cocktail with 6% alcohol, is made from a blend of wine and natural fruit flavors and is available in two flavors: strawberry margarita and peach vodka.
Berhan Mengistu, Brand and Innovation manager at Awash Wine said that the company is continuously pushing the boundaries to develop innovations that meet consumer preference and demands.
Neil Comerford, Commercial Director of Awash Wine S.C added that the company was “now proud to have arrived at another significant milestone in our wineries’ growth with the commissioning of the new production line.
“We will continue to invest in the long -term growth of our brands, our business our people and the communities in which we operate for the benefit of all.”
Available in 330ml ‘DANKIRA’ is now distributed in selected outlets across Addis Abeba for a recommended retail price of ETB 25 to ETB 30.
The company sources grapes from its previously owned 517 hactare grape farm where it grows grape cultivars such as Petit Syrah, Barbera Nebiollo, Chenin Blanc and Dodoma.
As the oldest winery in the country, the company boast of an 80% market share in the local market and produces six wines in its product portfolio under the brands; Awash, Kemila, Axumit, Gebeta, Awash Plus and Gouder.
Founded in 1943, Awash remains to be the highest producing winery at an annual production capacity of 11.5 million bottles.
The company competes with two major wineries in the country; Castel and Kana with a bottling capacity of 1.2 million bottles and 500,000 bottles of wine annually respectively.