The European wine sector, a cornerstone of the continent’s cultural and economic fabric, is preparing for another decisive moment.
On November 5, the Agriculture Committee of the European Parliament will discuss and vote on a series of substantial amendments to the so-called Wine Package, a legislative framework designed to support and regulate the wine industry within the Common Market Organisation (CMO Wine).
These amendments, which will later proceed to a plenary vote expected at the end of September 2025, aim to provide renewed momentum to a sector that continues to face structural and market challenges. As WineNews has learned, the proposed changes address a wide range of issues — from crisis management tools to promotional measures — reflecting both national differences and shared European priorities.
Diverging Views on Vineyard Uprooting and Distillation Support
Among the most debated points is the French proposal to include support for crisis distillation and vineyard uprooting as eligible measures for financing under the CMO Wine framework. France argues that these tools are necessary to restore market balance in light of oversupply and declining consumption.
However, the Italian position diverges sharply. According to industry sources, key institutional voices in Italy maintain that such interventions should be financed through national resources rather than through EU funds. This approach reflects Italy’s preference for using European mechanisms to support promotion, quality, and innovation, rather than structural reductions in vineyard area.
Adding to the debate, Germany recently revived its proposal for a pan-European vineyard uprooting plan, aimed at addressing structural surpluses across multiple member states. The topic remains sensitive, as vineyard reduction measures risk undermining regional economies and long-standing viticultural traditions.
Proposals to Strengthen Promotion and Investment Measures
Beyond crisis management, the upcoming discussion in Strasbourg will focus on enhancing financial support for promotional and investment activities. The proposed amendments include:
- Extending maximum co-financing rates for EU support measures, to increase access for smaller producers and cooperatives.
- Lengthening the maximum duration of promotional programmes in Third Countries, enabling producers to sustain brand-building efforts in key export markets such as the United States, Canada, Japan, and China.
These measures are intended to strengthen the global competitiveness of European wines and ensure that investments in promotion yield long-term results, particularly in the face of shifting consumer preferences and increased competition from New World producers.
A Critical Moment for Europe’s Wine Identity
The debate over the Wine Package underscores the broader transformation of the European wine landscape. Consumption across the EU continues to decline, driven by changing lifestyles, health concerns, and evolving market dynamics. At the same time, production challenges linked to climate change and economic pressures have tested the resilience of many wine regions.
Despite these headwinds, the European wine sector remains a pillar of rural development, supporting millions of jobs and preserving landscapes and traditions that define entire regions. The current legislative revisions are therefore seen as crucial not only for economic sustainability but also for safeguarding Europe’s wine heritage.
Looking Ahead
The Agriculture Committee’s deliberations on November 5 will set the tone for the months ahead. The final plenary vote, scheduled for September 2025, is expected to confirm a balanced compromise between crisis management tools, financial flexibility, and measures promoting innovation and sustainability.
As Europe’s policymakers work to align economic needs with cultural preservation, the outcome of these discussions will shape the next phase of the European wine policy, influencing how producers across the continent adapt to a rapidly evolving global market.
Source: WineNews