Rioja Wine Budget 2025: €15.7M Confirmed

Rioja Wine Council Approves €15.7M Budget for 2025, Enters Third Phase of Balance Recovery Plan

2025-01-10

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The Regulatory Council of the Rioja Qualified Designation of Origin (DOCa Rioja) has approved the third phase of its Balance Recovery Plan and ratified the budget for 2025, maintaining a total allocation of €15.7 million, the same amount as the previous year. This plan, launched in 2023, has reduced more than 90 million liters of wine over two years and aims to adjust supply to demand, ensuring the profitability of wineries and grape growers during a period of significant change for the wine sector.

The plan, driven by the Rioja Wine Interprofessional Organization (OIPVR), received broad support from the sector, with more than 90% of votes in favor during the plenary session held this morning. Since its implementation, the initiative has introduced measures such as the use of artificial intelligence for production control, the reduction of bureaucratic procedures for grape growers, and the enhancement of pre-commercialization quality controls.

In this third phase, new measures focus on vineyard management. A key proposal involves a voluntary reduction of planted vineyard areas by up to 5%, prioritizing high-yield red grape varieties. This initiative seeks to improve long-term profitability and achieve a better balance between production and market demand.

The plan also promotes grafting incentives to convert red grape varieties into white or minority red varieties, aiming to diversify the wine offering and adapt to evolving market trends.

For 2025, the Regulatory Council approved a budget of €15,721,698. Funding will come from both wineries and grape growers, with 60.4% provided by wineries and 39.6% by grape growers. This structure will reduce the average cost per grower by at least 5% compared to the previous year.

One of the largest portions of the budget, accounting for 59%, will be dedicated to promotional activities. A total of €9.3 million will be invested in promotional campaigns, advertising, and collaborations with international media and wine influencers. These efforts aim to strengthen the recognition of the Rioja brand both nationally and internationally. Among the key events planned for 2025 is the celebration of the Centenary of the DOCa Rioja, with a special program to be announced in the coming weeks.

The budget also includes funding for strategic projects, such as the continued development of the Rioja Wine Academy, which focuses on promoting education around Rioja wines. Additionally, the Sensory Control Plan will continue through the Regulatory Council's tasting panel. The use of artificial intelligence in vineyard management, already underway, will be further enhanced to optimize production and strengthen quality control processes.

Regulatory Council President Fernando Ezquerro expressed satisfaction with the consensus achieved and highlighted that the approved measures aim to minimize the economic impact on grape growers and wineries while ensuring the sector's stability and competitiveness in international markets. "Both the budget and the measures are consistent with the current market situation, aiming to preserve the Council's stability and strengthen the Rioja brand, which is essential for both wineries and grape growers," Ezquerro stated after the session.

Despite global uncertainty affecting wine consumption, DOCa Rioja closed 2024 with positive results. The region issued six million more back labels, reflecting a 2% increase in volume compared to the previous year. This growth confirms Rioja as the fastest-growing Designation of Origin in Spain in terms of volume.

The positive momentum underscores the importance of continuing efforts to balance supply and demand. The Balance Recovery Plan and promotional initiatives are designed to increase the perceived value of Rioja wines and drive sales in an increasingly competitive market.

For 2025, new advertising campaigns will target both domestic and international markets, with a focus on key regions for DOCa Rioja. The Council will also strengthen relationships with importers, distributors, and specialized media. In addition, educational initiatives aimed at both professionals and consumers will be expanded to reinforce Rioja's image as a benchmark for quality and tradition.

The approved Balance Recovery Plan and budget reflect the sector's commitment to ensuring the economic sustainability of grape growers and wineries while enhancing the global reputation of Rioja wines. With the Centenary celebration marking a significant milestone in 2025, the Regulatory Council is poised to consolidate its leadership and secure long-term profitability for the region.

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