Make Europe Grape Again – with new wine rules favouring both buyers and growers
Liberals and democrats welcome today’s vote on the Wine package. The two major outcomes of the vote are transparent labelling for consumers and new export markets for independent producers. The Parliament adopted Renew Europe's proposal for mandatory "reduced alcohol" labelling, responding to health-conscious consumer choices, whilst strengthening global competitiveness for Europe's wine producers.
“The package tackles two priorities at once: giving consumers honest labels they can trust and whilst giving independent wine producers support and tools they need to compete in today's markets and to expand in new markets outside the EU.”, said Renew shadow rapporteur Charles Goerens.
Charles GoerensRenew Europe MEP, Luxembourg, Parti démocratique
Wine products with an alcohol content of 0.5% or higher and at least 30% below the standard alcoholic strength of their category must now be clearly labelled as "reduced alcohol." Wine drinkers across Europe will now have transparent, trustworthy information when choosing reduced-alcohol options - a change fought for to prevent misleading practises and respond to consumer lifestyle choices. This is a significant step forward for public health and consumer transparency.
For independent wine growers, the package delivers results on an equally urgent challenge: strengthening competitiveness and securing new export markets amid geopolitical uncertainty. Renew MEP Gerens commented after the vote:
"Europe’s wine sector is a strategic pillar of our rural economies, cultural heritage, and global trade strength. By boosting exports, tackling plant diseases, and ensuring clearer labelling for consumers, the EU is taking a strong political stand to defend our producers and costumers, protect our regions, and secure the future competitiveness of European wine."
The new legislation increases funding for promotional campaigns in third countries, opening new export opportunities. Independent wine growers will benefit from more flexible payment schemes to help them cope with overproduction, market disruptions, and climate-related challenges. Independent winegrowers gain greater representation, whilst additional funding tackles plant diseases and pests.