2008 saw sales of Italian sparkling wines rise dramatically, especially in the export market. Compared to 2007, the volume of Italian sparkling wine sold was up 11%, driven by heightened international demand. Exports sales figures were up 29%, outpacing domestic sales for the first time ever. European destinations accounted for almost ¾ of all exports; in fact, exports to the UK alone were up 98%! Sales in the emerging markets of Russia and Spain were also up markedly. The Forum Spumanti & Bollicine, Italy's trade organization for sparkling wines, believes that the ratio of quality to price of Italian sparkling wines is more favorable than that of Champagne and other competing wines, and that is the factor most responsible for growth. Italy makes a variety of sparkling wines, with the most popular export being Asti Spumante.