In 2023, the European Union experienced an 8% drop in the production and export of sparkling wine. Despite this downturn, Italian Prosecco emerged as the top exporter of bubbly wines in the EU, outpacing the iconic French Champagne.
As the New Year approaches, many are eager to raise a glass of shimmering sparkling wine to celebrate. Unfortunately, this year, the supply is tighter due to adverse weather conditions affecting vineyards across the region.
According to the latest Eurostat data, the EU produced 1.496 billion liters of sparkling wine from fresh grapes this year, marking an 8% decrease from 2022. Italy led the production chart with an impressive 638 million liters, followed by France at 312 million liters and Germany at 263 million liters.
The EU’s sparkling wine exports saw a significant reduction, with 600 million liters shipped to non-EU countries, also reflecting an 8% drop compared to the previous year. Remarkably, Italy’s Prosecco captured nearly half of the EU’s bubbly wine export market, with sparkling wines from fresh grapes claiming 17%, French Champagne at 15%, and Spanish Cava at 10%.
On the flip side, EU nations imported a mere 5 million liters of sparkling wine from outside the bloc, which is less than 1% of the total exported volume.
Is Climate Change Behind the Decline in Sparkling Wine Production?
Severe weather events, including heavy rains, droughts, and storms, compounded by climate change, are altering the flavor profile of wine and threatening its very existence. In Italy, extreme climate conditions and soil degradation are leading to reduced grape yields, putting Prosecco’s future in jeopardy, with forecasts predicting a 20% drop in production.
Similarly, Spain’s Cava faces significant risks due to intense droughts that have impacted many communities in Catalonia. Although Cava producers remain cautiously optimistic about potential rainfall in 2025, the industry is urging the Spanish government to implement irrigation strategies and other measures to combat the ongoing drought challenges.
To tackle chronic water shortages, Catalonia’s regional government recently unveiled a €2.3 billion investment plan set for completion by 2040. This plan includes a substantial €200 million seawater desalination facility along the Costa Brava, provided it receives financial backing from the Spanish government.
Video editor • Mert Can Yilmaz
Photo credit & article inspired by: Euronews
