MEPs and the Council have reached a provisional agreement on new regulations for the European Union’s wine sector. The deal aims to address ongoing challenges faced by wine producers and create new opportunities in the market.
The agreement introduces clearer labeling rules for de-alcoholised wines. Products with an alcohol content not exceeding 0.05% by volume may use the term “alcohol-free” alongside “0.0%.” Wines with an alcohol strength of 0.5% or higher, but at least 30% below their original level before de-alcoholisation, should be labeled as “alcohol reduced.”
Winegrowers affected by severe natural disasters, weather events, plant diseases, or pests will receive additional support under the new rules. They will have an extra year to plant or replant grape varieties impacted by such incidents.
The deal also provides for increased flexibility in funding. EU funds can now be used for grubbing up vines when necessary. Additionally, national payment ceilings for wine distillation and green harvesting are set at 25% of each member state’s total available funds.
Producer organizations that manage protected designations of origin and geographical indications will receive further assistance to promote wine tourism initiatives. The agreement allows for enhanced EU funding of promotional campaigns targeting markets outside Europe. The EU will cover up to 60% of eligible costs, while member states can contribute up to 30% for small and medium enterprises and up to 20% for larger companies. These promotional measures—including advertising, events, exhibitions, and studies—can be financed over three years and renewed twice, allowing a maximum period of nine years.
Rapporteur Esther Herranz García (EPP, Spain) commented: “We are providing the sector with tools to tackle the profound crisis it is experiencing. These include measures to regulate supply in line with demand, such as the option of financing crisis measures, such as grubbing-up, with European funds, thereby ensuring equal opportunities for wine growers in the different Member States. We are also offering higher co-financing rates for measures for adapting to climate change. Finally, we have improved conditions for promotion outside the EU, which will allow for more stable and better targeted campaigns, and enhanced the conditions for wine tourism and the opportunities for diversification that it offers.”
Before these new rules can take effect, both Parliament and Council must formally approve the provisional agreement.
