While global wine consumption has been on a downward trend, crémant continues to defy expectations.
Excluding the exceptional circumstances of the Covid crisis, crémant sales have broken records annually for the past decade. Since 2016, sales have surged by 47%, and in 2024 alone, 114.5 million bottles were sold—a 5.9% increase compared to 2023. Unlike champagne, which has struggled with inflation-related pricing challenges, the eight crémant appellations have shown consistent growth.
Crémant d'Alsace Leads the Charge
Among the crémant-producing regions, Crémant d'Alsace recorded the most impressive growth, with sales soaring by 40.9% compared to 2023. Crémant de Loire followed with a 26.8% increase, while Crémant de Bourgogne saw a 23.6% rise.
According to Dominique Furlan, president of the National Federation of Crémant Producers and Makers, this collective momentum solidifies crémant's status as a staple in consumer habits. "Crémant has successfully anchored itself in the market and gained recognition from new audiences. The sector now possesses a strong reputation, image, and credibility, forming a solid foundation for a promotion strategy aligned with the premiumization of our production," he stated.
A Thriving Market Across All Channels
France, which accounts for 60% of crémant sales, has seen strong growth across all retail channels. Unlike other French appellations that are experiencing stagnation in mass distribution, crémant has managed to sustain demand. This positive trend extends to exports, where crémant remains the only category with a geographical indication that increased in 2024. Business France predicts that this upward trajectory will continue into 2025, with notable opportunities in the Rhine region, the United Kingdom, and Australia.
Supply and Production Outlook
Despite a 15% drop in the 2024 harvest (887,931 hectoliters), industry experts believe this will not significantly impact 2025 sales. The long aging process and the ability to blend different vintages provide crémant producers with a buffer against short-term fluctuations in grape production.
With its affordability, versatility, and growing international appeal, crémant continues to carve out a larger share of the sparkling wine market. As consumers seek high-quality alternatives to champagne, the success of crémant appears poised to continue in the coming years.
Source: National Federation of Crémant Producers and Makers