European countries’ wine production has fallen to its lowest level in 60 years. The rise in prices led to the lowest consumption in the last 28 years

A report compiled by the International Organization of Vine and Wine (OIV) shows that the most affected countries were Italy (-23%) and Spain (-20%). Production also fell in Germany (-3.8%), Hungary (-2.1%) and Austria (-6.5%).

Data from the OIV, which covers 50 countries and accounts for 75% of the world’s wine-growing area, shows that in 2023, EU wine production fell by 10% and reached its lowest level since 1962. The report also shows that in some countries in Europe, a rainy spring has caused flooding, damage and losses in vineyards, as well as a spread of vine diseases. Other countries, especially those in southern Europe, have faced excessive drought, BiiziDay reports.

The OIV points out that while climate change does not bear the full responsibility for the poor wine year, it is the biggest challenge facing the sector. Grapevines are extremely vulnerable to climate change, and these have affected crops in both the northern and southern hemispheres.

The decrease in production came simultaneously with a decrease in wine consumption, against the backdrop of inflation in Europe and the US, but also with a decrease in exports to China. Globally, last year saw the lowest wine consumption since 1996.