Global wine production for this year has reached its lowest point since 1961, primarily due to the onslaught of extreme weather events affecting vineyards, according to the International Organisation of Vine and Wine (OIV).
The OIV has reported a total output of 244.1 million hectolitres, marking a 7% decrease from 2022, as per its initial estimates.
The OIV attributed this decline to recurring extreme weather conditions, including early frost, heavy rainfall, and drought, which have substantially impacted global vineyard productivity. The organization, which supplies data to grape and wine-producing and consuming nations, expressed this concern.
Significantly, several prominent wine-producing countries in the southern hemisphere, such as Australia, Argentina, Chile, South Africa, and Brazil, witnessed substantial declines in their production levels, ranging from 10% to 30%.
Italy, having experienced a 12% reduction in output, has lost its status as the world’s top wine producer. This has enabled France to regain its position as the leading producer, as its production remained relatively stable.