Wine Expert Decries Influx Of Fake Wines, Organises Consumer Trainings
OLORUNDARE ENIMOLA, Lagos
Chinedu Rosa, popularly known as Vines by Rosa, has reaffirmed her commitment to combating the influx of fake wines in the Nigerian market while strengthening the connection between African consumers and authentic global wine producers.
Rosa, who is recognized as the first and only African female wine consultant based in Bordeaux, has spent over six years in the wine industry, working as an importer, wholesaler, retailer, educator, and international wine ambassador.
Speaking during a media briefing in Lagos, Rosa highlighted her mission to promote wine education, expand consumer awareness and foster direct links between Nigerian buyers and reputable wineries across Europe. She emphasized that proper knowledge remains the most effective tool in helping consumers identify genuine products and avoid the growing problem of counterfeit wines.
Rosa currently represents over 300 wineries worldwide and works with more than 20 importers in Nigeria, alongside dozens more across Africa. Many of the brands she brings into the country comprise multiple labels under a single producer. She explained that understanding label details—such as brand names, sub-labels, and production identifiers—is essential for identifying original wines.
“Education is the most important thing,” she said.
“Every legitimate wine-producing company must have their name clearly shown on every bottle. Once people learn how to read labels, they can trace what they’re buying.”
Rosa, who began working in the Nigerian wine sector in 2008, shared that the reception to premium and mid-range wines in Nigeria has grown significantly. According to her, Nigerian consumers—particularly those who have tasted high-quality wines abroad—are increasingly demanding authenticity and diversity in the local market.
She noted that wine pairing with traditional Nigerian dishes such as jollof rice, akara, suya, and egusi soup has also become a popular aspect of her educational events across Nigeria, France, and Italy.
During the session, European partners also praised the Nigerian market as one of the most dynamic and fast-growing in Africa. Roberto Cardinale of Settecani and Fina wineries described Nigeria as “one of the most exciting business destinations,” citing rising wine appreciation and increasing demand for high-quality Italian wines.
Rosa warned that counterfeit wines endanger both consumer health and national revenue. She emphasized that legitimate importers pay taxes, duties, and levies that contribute positively to Nigeria’s economy, while fake products undermine these gains.
Responding to questions about addressing the issue, she stated:
“I can identify fake wines without a laboratory. If the authorities require expert assistance, I am available. Consumers also reach out to me daily because they want to know where to buy authentic wines without fear.”
Rosa confirmed that she is in talks with Nigerian government officials about creating clearer pathways for product verification, consumer protection, and wine tourism growth.
Consumers seeking guidance can reach her through her website vinesbyrosa.com, Instagram page @vinesbyrosa, or LinkedIn profile under Chinedu Rita Rosa.
As she prepares to expand her engagements in Nigeria and other African markets, Rosa reiterated that her primary goal is to serve as a bridge between global producers and African consumers—ensuring transparency, quality assurance, and an elevated wine culture across the continent.
