French Organic Wine Sales Rise 7% in 2024 as Younger Drinkers Drive Demand

Organic French wine continues to attract global interest, with demand showing steady growth over the past decade. According to SudVinBio, a trade association representing organic wine producers in France, value sales of French organic wines increased by 7% in 2024. The organization’s latest market insights describe this demand as resilient, both in terms of volume and value. However, the report also notes that production is outpacing sales, raising questions about which consumers should be targeted to support further growth.

The strongest sales growth for organic wines was seen in higher-value distribution channels, such as specialty wine shops and restaurants. In contrast, value sales in supermarkets and hypermarkets fell by 8% in 2024. SudVinBio’s report emphasizes the need to encourage consumption across all retail channels, especially as the supply of organic wine continues to rise.

France’s organically certified vineyard area has expanded rapidly over the last 15 years. Between 2010 and 2024, the area dedicated to organic vineyards increased sevenfold. Today, more than 20% of French vineyard acreage is either certified organic or in the process of conversion. Julien Franclet, chairman of SudVinBio, described this growth as remarkable when compared to the history of French agriculture. He noted that just 25 years ago, organic wine production was still a niche sector.

To better understand who is drinking organic wine, SudVinBio conducted a survey of 2,500 people across mainland France between the ages of 18 and 75. The results show that 69% of the French population drink wine in general, while 39% have consumed organic wine. Of those surveyed, 7% said they drink organic wine regularly and another 37% said they drink it occasionally.

The survey also revealed that younger consumers are more likely to choose organic wine. People under the age of 35 make up 31% of organic wine drinkers but only account for 18% of those who drink only conventional (non-organic) wine. This suggests that younger adults are more open to organic products and may be a key demographic for producers to target.

Organic wine consumers also tend to be more concerned about health and environmental issues related to food choices. The survey found that these drinkers are more aware of how their purchases impact their well-being and the environment.

As production continues to grow faster than demand, French organic wine producers face the challenge of expanding their customer base. The data suggests that focusing on younger consumers and those with an interest in health and sustainability could help close the gap between supply and sales. At the same time, efforts to boost sales in mainstream retail channels may be necessary to ensure continued growth for the sector.