Beyond crisis distillation, Commissioner Christophe Hansen used the Paris stage to outline the newly approved EU “Wine Package,” a comprehensive legislative response to mounting pressures in the European wine market.
One of the most pressing challenges is the structural decline in wine consumption, particularly red wine. Producer incomes are under pressure, reducing investment capacity and increasing financial vulnerability.
To mitigate overproduction, the Commission proposes:
- Greater flexibility for Member States in financing vineyard grubbing-up
- Easier management of replanting and planting permits
- Elimination of penalties for unused replanting rights
These tools aim to give Member States greater autonomy in adjusting production volumes to real market demand.
Climate Adaptation Funding Increased
The wine sector is particularly exposed to climate volatility. Vineyards are highly sensitive to:
- Hailstorms
- Drought stress
- Heatwaves
- Irregular precipitation
The Commission is increasing EU co-financing rates for climate-related investments, including:
- Hail protection systems
- Water management infrastructure
- Vineyard adaptation technologies
This signals recognition that climate resilience is no longer optional, but essential for sector survival.
Digital Labeling Harmonization Across the EU
Another major step forward concerns digital labeling. Previously, Member States applied varying interpretations regarding QR codes and ingredient declarations, forcing producers to create multiple label versions for different markets.
The Commission now proposes:
- A single EU-wide symbol for nutritional information and ingredients
- No translation requirement
- Simplified cross-border trade
This measure reduces administrative costs, legal uncertainty, and operational complexity for producers exporting within the EU.
Growth Segments: Non-Alcoholic and Aromatized Wines
The Commission also highlighted a small but rapidly expanding market segment:
- Low-alcohol wines
- Non-alcoholic wines
- Aromatized wine-based beverages
By establishing EU-wide marketing standards, the new framework seeks to:
- Encourage innovation
- Provide legal clarity
- Protect consumers through transparent product information
CAP Reform and the Future of CMO Wine
Within the broader reform of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), the future of the Common Market Organization (CMO) for wine remains under negotiation.
Hansen clarified that under the Commission’s proposal:
- Member States will define national wine budgets
- Support will be mandatory for PDO wines and producer organizations
- Countries may exceed current allocations if crisis conditions require
Final budget decisions will rest with the European Parliament, the Council, and EU Heads of State and Government. Hansen reaffirmed his intention to maintain strong support for the wine sector, emphasizing its dual role as a cornerstone of European exports and culinary heritage.
Source: VinoVistara