From the Herald Sun:

Wine-grape growers should expect another decade of downturn, according to independent grower body the Wine Grape Council of South Australia.

Only a third of more than 1000 growers responding to a recent WGCSA survey said they made a profit in 2010, executive officer Peter Hackworth said. He estimated about 92 per cent of Riverland growers made a loss last year.

Two-thirds of grapes harvested in South Australia were sold below the cost of production, an unsustainable position, the WGCSA said.

This year's vintage was likely to be worse, with prices remaining unchanged on higher inputs as growers sprayed to keep fungal diseases at bay. "Anybody selling into the lower end of the market is in trouble, but they're also in trouble at all levels," Mr Hackworth said.

For more, see: Wrath ahead for grape growers