Between January 2020 and April 2025, wine imports into the United States—still the world’s top wine importer—have followed a volatile and dynamic path, marked by the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, trade disruptions, changing consumer behavior, inflation, and speculation around tariffs.
This landscape is thoroughly analyzed in a report by Del Rey AWM, based on data from S&P Global and published on June 30.
Pandemic Shock and Recovery
The U.S. wine market experienced a sharp contraction in 2020 with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Imports plummeted both in value and volume, as lockdowns disrupted consumption patterns and global supply chains. However, beginning in early 2021, the market rebounded strongly. A surge in imports followed, driven by pent-up demand and optimism in post-pandemic reopening.
The 2022 Correction
Yet the rebound was short-lived. In mid-2022, the market began a sharp correction, with consecutive monthly declines in both volume (liters) and value (USD). These drops were driven by shifting domestic demand, ongoing logistical issues, inflationary pressures, and—crucially—excess stockpiling by importers during the recovery. Distributors had overestimated the pace of market normalization, leading to a period of de-stocking and cautious buying behavior.
Signs of a Fragile Recovery in 2024–2025
In late 2024 and into early 2025, modest signs of recovery emerged. These were fueled in part by the anticipation of new tariffs, encouraging importers to restock before potential price hikes, and by improved international logistics and consumption patterns. However, this bounce has not reached the pre-correction peaks of 2022.
From January to April 2025, the U.S. imported 12.4 million hectoliters of wine (+1% YoY) for a total value of USD 7.083 billion (+7.2% YoY). Notably, the recovery in value outpaces volume, suggesting a shift toward premium wines. Bottled still wines rose 8.1% in value, sparkling wines jumped 11.8%, while bulk wines plummeted nearly 20% in volume and 27% in value.
France and Italy Lead, Southern Hemisphere Struggles
France dominates 2025 U.S. wine imports by value so far, posting USD 984.9 million (+33.1% YoY). Italy follows with USD 798.4 million (+13.8%), strengthening its position as volume leader thanks to lower average prices and popular labels like Pinot Grigio and Prosecco. Spain, in fourth place, also saw gains, reaching USD 128.1 million (+8.3%).
In contrast, New Zealand (+volume, -value) and Australia (-volume, -value) experienced setbacks, highlighting pricing challenges. Argentina held steady (+0.4%), while Chile saw a 2.5% drop in value. Canada notably reduced its shipments, especially bulk wine, losing significant ground in the U.S. market.
Tariffs and Trade Uncertainty Influence Trends
The looming possibility of new U.S.-EU tariffs has clearly influenced buying patterns. Importers are acting preemptively, stocking up in anticipation of increased duties. At the same time, domestic consumption is holding up better than previously expected, with the trade showing a willingness to rebuild inventories after the 2023-2024 downturn.
In fact, December 2024 marked the peak of the recovery (+30% YoY), but growth has slowed since: January 2025 rose 3.4%, February 6.9%, March 2.3%, and April just 1.5%. Still, the shift toward higher-value bottled wines, especially from Europe, is helping sustain revenue growth even as total volume rises more slowly.
Conclusion
The U.S. wine import market is in a period of fragile recovery, shaped by post-pandemic corrections, global economic variables, and geopolitical uncertainty. European producers—especially France and Italy—are emerging as the clear beneficiaries of current trends, while Southern Hemisphere suppliers face a more uncertain future. With tariff negotiations underway and consumer preferences evolving, the second half of 2025 may prove decisive in shaping the next chapter of global wine trade.
Source: Vinetur