The cultivation of robust grape varieties continues to gain momentum in Germany.
According to the latest vineyard statistics from the German Wine Institute (DWI) and Destatis, Germany’s vineyard landscape saw a significant shift in 2024, with the area planted with fungus-resistant grape varieties (PIWIs) expanding to approximately 3,500 hectares. This marks a 10 percent increase compared to the previous year, bringing their share of Germany’s total vineyard area to 3.5 percent.
Souvignier Gris Leads the Growth of PIWIs
Among the PIWIs, the white grape variety Souvignier Gris experienced the highest growth, expanding by 208 hectares. Now covering around 600 hectares nationwide, it has emerged as Germany’s most widely cultivated PIWI variety. Following closely behind is Cabernet Blanc, which now spans 335 hectares.
The increasing adoption of these resilient grape varieties underscores a shift in German viticulture towards sustainability and adaptation to changing climatic conditions. PIWIs offer improved resistance to fungal diseases, reducing the need for chemical treatments while maintaining high-quality yields.
Traditional White Varieties Continue to Expand
Beyond the PIWI sector, several conventional white grape varieties also experienced notable growth in 2024. Chardonnay, a favorite among winemakers and consumers, saw an increase of 138 hectares. Pinot Blanc and Pinot Gris expanded by 44 hectares and 32 hectares, respectively, while Sauvignon Blanc grew by 52 hectares. These expansions reflect the continued demand for fresh, fruit-driven white wines from Germany.
Red Wine Trends: Decline in Total Acreage, but Growth for Select Varieties
The red wine sector, however, saw an overall decline, mirroring broader market trends of decreasing red wine consumption. Germany’s total red grape vineyard area decreased by 438 hectares to 31,872 hectares, accounting for 30.9 percent of the nation’s vineyards.
Despite this decline, certain red grape varieties defied the trend. International varieties such as Merlot (+30 ha) and Cabernet Sauvignon (+14 ha) expanded, demonstrating a growing preference for full-bodied reds in certain regions. Additionally, new robust red wine varieties such as Pinotin (+10 ha) and Cabernet Cortis (+9 ha) showed modest but promising growth, aligning with the increasing adoption of climate-resistant grapes.
Climate Change and Adaptation in German Viticulture
“The increases in the new robust grape varieties and the growth of southern red wine varieties indicate that German winegrowers are actively adapting to the challenges posed by climate change,” stated Monika Reule, Managing Director of DWI. Rising temperatures and shifting weather patterns have necessitated the exploration of heat-tolerant grape varieties that can thrive in Germany’s evolving climate.
Regional Shifts: Rheinhessen Bucks the Trend
While the national vineyard area declined by 392 hectares (-0.4 percent) in 2024—the first decrease since the authorization of new plantings in 2016—some regions demonstrated resilience. Rheinhessen, Germany’s largest wine-producing region, expanded by 171 hectares, reaching a total vineyard area of 27,671 hectares.
Conversely, other prominent wine regions experienced a decline. Baden lost 225 hectares, Württemberg saw a reduction of 213 hectares (mostly due to declining Trollinger plantings), the Mosel shrank by 95 hectares, and Franken decreased by 45 hectares.
Organic Viticulture on the Rise
A significant trend in German viticulture is the increasing share of organically cultivated vineyards. In 2023, Germany’s certified organic vineyard area expanded by 1,500 hectares, reaching a total of 15,300 hectares. This represents an 11 percent growth from 2022, with organic viticulture now accounting for around 15 percent of the country’s total vineyard area.
Looking Ahead: The Future of German Viticulture
As climate change and consumer preferences continue to reshape the wine industry, Germany’s commitment to sustainability and adaptability remains strong. The rise of PIWIs, the strategic expansion of white varieties, and the selective growth of red grapes indicate a thoughtful and forward-looking approach by German winemakers. While some regions face challenges, others are seizing opportunities, ensuring that German wine remains dynamic and globally competitive.
Source: German Wine Institute (DWI)