Wine exports last year totalled more than $900 million according to latest export figures from New Zealand Winegrowers - an increase of 19% on 2007.
New Zealand Winegrowers chief executive Philip Gregan said the growth in sales can be attributed partly to strong peformance in key markets, particularly Australia.
The other crucial factor was a big increase in volume from the 2008 vintage, he said, which allowed the sales to grow, though there will also be a surplus of produce as a result.
Mr Gregan said the industry is confident sales will continue to grow, despite the economic downturn, and to reach the $1 billion mark.