EU reaches deal on modernised wine rules aimed at resilience and growth

The Council and European Parliament have agreed a new policy framework designed to future-proof the EU wine sector. Measures span climate action, labelling reform, innovation and support for rural economies.

The Council and the European Parliament have struck a provisional agreement on an updated policy framework for the EU wine sector, with the aim of keeping producers competitive, resilient and equipped for shifting market conditions.

The package introduces changes across production management, climate adaptation, labelling, planting rules and wine tourism, while also opening the door to new product development.

Danish minister for food, agriculture and fisheries Jacob Jensen said the deal supports a sector that “embodies centuries of skill, culture and regional identity”.

“This agreement ensures that the producers can adapt, innovate and compete globally, while safeguarding rural livelihoods and preserving the quality and diversity that consumers expect from European wine,” he said.

Key updates to EU wine policy

Bringing production in line with demand

Member states will be able to support measures such as grubbing-up excess vines to avoid oversupply and stabilise the market. The current end date for the planting rights scheme will be removed, replaced with a 10-year revision period.

Strengthening climate resilience

EU support for climate-related investments may rise to as much as 80% of eligible costs. The aim is to speed up mitigation and adaptation efforts and support producers shifting towards sustainable practices.

Simplified, harmonised labelling

Labelling rules will be streamlined across the EU to reduce administrative burden and ease cross-border trade. Consumers will gain clearer access to information, including through digital labels and pictograms.

Driving rural growth through wine tourism

Wine producers will be able to access targeted support for wine tourism projects intended to boost rural economies.

Clarified definitions for low- and no-alcohol wine

The term ‘alcohol-free’ will apply to products below 0.5% abv, while ‘0.0%’ will be reserved for those below 0.05%.
Wines above 0.5% abv but at least 30% lower in strength than the standard product will carry the designation ‘reduced-alcohol’, replacing the earlier suggestion of ‘alcohol-light’.

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