Part 4/7:
Sarah Marcus, owner of Molly Dooka Wines, exemplifies the reliance on the US market. Having operated her winery for over two decades, Marcus recalls that her first vintage in 2006 was almost entirely destined for the US. She highlights that if tariffs increase—potentially by 40%—it would be "devastating" for her business and many others like it. While some wineries might absorb a 10% increase, larger fees could force them to pass costs onto consumers, which may impact sales and accessibility.
The economic toll is stark—South Australian labels represent about two-thirds of Australia’s wine exports. In the year leading up to May, exports to the US valued approximately $136.7 million, positioning the US as the state's third-largest export market behind the UK and China.