Hello my dear friends! This is a very special Wednesday as we are sharing great news about Papi Wines, this time from Dominican Republic. We are nothing but thrilled about the reception that the brand is having throughout the country. Simone International, a New Jersey-based family-owned wholesale wine importer, has shown true commitment to bringing Papi to every Dominican home. That effort is now translating in a fast paced growth! Today varietals such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Sauvignon Blanc are favorites of many wine lovers in 'La Hispaniola'.
As we explained in July of last year, while introducing the brand to our blog, beer and spirits, and (especially) rum, have traditionally been the preferred alcoholic beverages in Dominican Republic. Much more when talking about low-income rural populations. However, wine consumption began to experience rapid growth in the late 1990s, surpassing annual sales of over 100,000 cases to approximately 500,000 by the year 2000. By 2007, wine consumption alone was around 7 million liters per year, which represented more than $18 million dollars yearly. In recent decades, the wine market has experienced a sustained increase.
Papi is made in Chile, a country with a long winemaking tradition. This, added to the privileged geographical position of the country, makes this product absolutely special. Papi wine, named after the common term of affection used in everyday conversation in Latin American countries has a "slightly sweet" flavor profile that makes it unique and attractive even for those less inclined to consume wine. The brand, introduced in USA in 2007, has become one of the fastest growing brands in this category.
As we mentioned, varietals such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Sauvingnon Blanc are now being sold in the most important regions of the country. Businesses of great prestige such as Fernández Cáceres Comercial, Farah Group, Almacenes Hatuey and Carvis SRL incessantly work distributing Papi to more than 300 points of sale. The brand is now gearing up as sponsor of La Vega and Santiago de los Caballeros Carnivals in February.
The rise of the product, in addition to the commercial management put in place by aforementioned distributors, is also supported by other factors. The effort and financial investment of Simone International to internationalize the brand stands out as another contributor. You can already see billboards of Papi around main avenues and shopping centers in Santo Domingo and other important cities. However, the undeniable quality of the wines, is the most important element of Papi's success.
Here are some images from various locations and tastings! And for those interested in buying Papi wines in DR, let us reveal some hot selling points here below:
You can buy Papi in Vocatus, Ocho Santos y Monegro Liquor Store, in the north of DR. In Santo Domingo you can buy it at Almacenes Hatuey, La Casa de la Caña, Albert Liquors, Carrefour, Almacenes Unidos and Hola Market. To the east, find Papi at Carvis, Suplidora La Hoz, Iberia Supermarkets and La Bodega Liquor Store.
Thanks to all who, along with The Wine Chaser, have made this a truly happy endeavor.
And that's the end for today my friends! Let's meet here next Wednesday, until then... Santé!