According to the latest projections from Italian wine producer associations Unione Italiana Vini (UIV) and Assoenologi, Italy’s wine production is poised to dip below 44 million hectoliters in 2023. This is a significant 12% decline from the 50 million hectoliters achieved in 2022, marking this year’s least productive vintage since 2017. These figures suggest a potential shift in the global wine production crown to France, which, despite also facing a decrease, is expected to produce approximately 45 million hectoliters in 2023, down by 2% from the previous year.
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GLOBAL WARMING CHALLENGES
The reduction in production can be attributed to the challenges posed by global warming, which have tested the resilience of grape growers, particularly those committed to organic farming. Several regions in Italy have been hit hard, with events such as flooding in Romagna, hailstorms in Lombardy and Veneto, and droughts and wildfires in the South and on the major islands. Additionally, abundant spring rainfall has created conditions conducive to vine diseases like downy mildew, resulting in decreased production volumes, especially in the central-southern regions.
FOCUS ON HIGH QUALITY
2023 has thus proven to be a demanding year, compelling Italian producers to make investments aimed at preserving wine quality. The efforts of experts in the vineyards and cellars will play a pivotal role in mitigating the impact and upholding optimistic forecasts concerning wine quality, which are expected to include outstanding achievements.
Caviro, the largest winery in Italy, represents several wine regions, many of which have been affected by adverse weather conditions and crop diseases. The company expresses its commitment to “support grape growers, guided by principles of mutual assistance and sustainability, by equipping them with the necessary tools to navigate this delicate period while safeguarding both the market and consumers.”