The European Union is facing a significant transformation in its wine landscape, with both consumption and production projected to decline until 2035. According to the latest EU agricultural outlook, this trend reflects a deeper structural change rather than a temporary setback for the world’s largest wine-producing region.
The report forecasts a yearly decrease of approximately 0.9% in wine consumption, leading to a per-capita intake of around 19.3 liters by 2035. This figure marks a notable decline from nearly 30 liters recorded in the early 2000s, as evolving lifestyles, health concerns, and regulatory pressures reshape drinking habits across the continent.
Younger generations are increasingly opting for lower alcohol consumption, while national policies advocating for moderation in alcohol intake are further reinforcing this trend. The report highlights that competition from alternative beverages is also contributing to this shift.
As vineyards are pulled out and production decreases, the EU wine industry faces a critical juncture that necessitates adaptation to the changing preferences of consumers.
Source: Vino Joy News