Wine production in France is facing a challenging year, with total output estimated at around 36 million hectoliters, according to data from the French Ministry of Agriculture’s statistical service, Agreste.
This figure represents a 1% decline compared to 2024 and remains well below the five-year average of 42.9 million hectoliters.
Weather Conditions Impact Vineyards
Experts attribute the reduced production primarily to adverse weather conditions. The heat wave and drought in August accelerated grape ripening and inhibited growth, resulting in smaller, less juicy berries. Although rains arrived in September, they were insufficient to counterbalance the earlier damage, leaving many vineyards struggling to meet their potential yields.
Regional Variations
The Languedoc-Roussillon region, France’s largest producer by volume, recorded a 9% drop, producing around 9 million hectoliters, affected not only by heat and drought but also by mildew. Moreover, the region saw the uprooting of approximately 10,000 hectares of vineyards.
Other regions experienced mixed outcomes:
- Charentes: production down 2% to 8 million hectoliters after a 23% drop in 2024.
- Bordeaux and Southwest: 2% decline, following a 17% decrease last year, also impacted by vineyard losses.
- Champagne: harvest progressed faster than usual, with a 14% increase, yet still 10% below the five-year average.
- Burgundy-Beaujolais: Burgundy rose by 45%, while Beaujolais fell by 32%.
- Loire Valley: production increased 15%, reaching 2.4 million hectoliters.
Wine Types: Mixed Trends
By wine classification, AOP wines saw a 5% increase, totaling 15.9 million hectoliters, while PGI wines decreased by 6% to around 10 million hectoliters. Wines intended for spirits remained relatively stable, decreasing slightly by 1% to 7.7 million hectoliters.
Contrasting Regional Outcomes
The report emphasizes regional disparities. Alsace experienced a 9% drop in production, whereas Corsica saw a 13% rise. Savoie and Jura also reported significant increases compared to the previous year, highlighting the uneven effects of weather and vineyard management across France.
Overall, 2025 underscores the vulnerability of French vineyards to extreme weather and structural challenges, with notable disparities shaping the country’s wine production landscape.
Source: Vinetur