California wine sales continue growth.

SAN FRANCISCO, CA -- California wine sales in the U.S. reached 185.4 million 9-liter cases in 2005, a record, with a retail value of $16.5 billion, according to wine industry consultant Jon Fredrikson, publisher of the Gomberg-Fredrikson Report.

"Production increases around the globe have resulted in scores of creative, value-oriented wines. The availability of more approachable, easy drinking 'user-friendly' wines with memorable labels and affordable prices has made wine more interesting and attractive to greater numbers of American adults," said Fredrikson.

"Wine consumption is gaining among all generational segments, led by Baby Boomers, with more interest not only by women, but men and nearly all ethnic groups and regions," said Barbara Insel, managing director of research at MKF Research in St. Helena, CA. "Both retailers and restaurants are responding by expanding the quality and diversity of their offerings."

Fredrikson noted that California table wine priced $7 and above increased sales by 13%, and now accounts for 35% of case volume and 66% of California winery sales revenues. Sales of everyday wines, priced up to $7, fell 2%. That segment now represents 65% of California winery case volume and 34% of their revenues.