In 2023, global wine consumption decreased significantly, according to the International Wine and Vine Office (OIV). The OIV estimates that 221 million hectoliters of wine were consumed worldwide, the lowest level in 27 years. This decrease in consumption was attributed to rising production and distribution costs, driven by factors such as geopolitical tensions, the energy crisis, and supply chain disruptions in the global economy.
The decline in wine consumption was particularly pronounced in China, where consumption fell by 25% compared to the previous year. This decrease in consumption in China has been a trend over the past five years, influenced by factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic and escalating wine prices. In addition to declining consumption, the OIV also reported a decrease in wine production last year, reaching its lowest level in over 60 years. The estimated global wine production in 2023 was 237 million hectoliters, a 10% decrease from the previous year. This drop in production was attributed to poor weather conditions, including early frosts, heavy rains, and drought, as well as fungal diseases affecting vineyards in both hemispheres.
Major wine-producing countries like Italy also experienced a significant decline in production. Italy produced the least amount of wine since 1950. France surpassed Italy as the largest producer of wine in 2023. These trends in consumption and production have had a significant impact on the global wine market, highlighting challenges faced by the industry. The OIV provides valuable insights into these trends through its monitoring and analysis work as a joint organization of fifty member states based in Paris.
Finally