European Wine Culture Faces Uncertainty Amid WHO Push for Stricter Alcohol Policies

The Académie Internationale du Vin (AIV), a respected association of wine experts based in Lausanne, Switzerland, has issued a public warning about what it describes as an “existential risk” to Europe’s wine culture. The group’s concerns center on the World Health Organization’s (WHO) recent push to “denormalize” wine consumption, which the AIV says could have far-reaching consequences for centuries-old traditions and the global wine industry.

In an open letter addressed to the heads of government of all United Nations member states, the AIV argues that current proposals from the WHO threaten not only the economic stability of wine-producing regions but also a cultural heritage that has shaped European society for thousands of years. The timing of this letter is significant, as world leaders are set to vote on a resolution concerning alcohol policy during the 80th United Nations General Assembly on September 25, 2025.

The resolution, under the section “Prevention of non-communicable diseases and promotion of mental health,” includes measures aimed at reducing what it calls the “harmful use of alcohol.” These measures include banning or severely restricting alcohol advertising, limiting physical access to alcoholic beverages, and enforcing stricter drink-driving laws. While these steps are presented as public health initiatives, the AIV and other stakeholders in the wine sector believe they could lead to a form of prohibition that would undermine both economic livelihoods and cultural practices.

The AIV’s letter points out that in 2023, the WHO published a study stating there is “no safe level” of alcohol consumption. This position has been widely reported in international media and has influenced policy discussions. However, many winemakers and some academics dispute these findings, citing research suggesting that moderate wine consumption can have health benefits for adults over 40. Critics also argue that the WHO’s study was flawed in its methodology and selectively cited data.

Beyond scientific debate, wineries and advocacy groups warn that anti-alcohol campaigns are pushing for even stricter regulations. These include mandatory health warnings on wine labels, higher excise taxes, bans on advertising, and even prohibitions on drinking wine in public spaces such as restaurant terraces or outdoor cafés. The AIV sees these measures as steps toward a global prohibitionist approach that would erase traditional ways of enjoying wine.

Guillaume d’Angerville, president of the AIV, described the organization’s decision to go public as unprecedented but necessary. He emphasized that the threat posed by current policy proposals is urgent and requires collective action from those who value wine culture. Veronique Sanders, Chancelier of the AIV, explained that their motivation is rooted in a desire to remind people worldwide of wine’s role in human history and its function as a universal language connecting people across borders.

The AIV insists that any legislative action should be based on solid, independently verified scientific evidence. The group calls for long-term randomized studies similar to those required for pharmaceutical approvals before any sweeping restrictions are enacted. They argue that education about moderation is preferable to outright prohibition.

The open letter also references work by U.S. physician and winemaker Laura Catena and journalist Felicity Carter, who have compiled research challenging some anti-alcohol claims. The AIV encourages policymakers to review these resources before making decisions with potentially irreversible effects on wine culture.

The letter concludes with an appeal for balance: urging leaders to combat excesses while recognizing the value of moderation; to protect public health without erasing cultural traditions; and to preserve mankind’s bond with viticulture as part of humanity’s shared heritage.

The list of signatories includes more than 80 prominent figures from across the global wine industry—producers, writers, scientists, and collectors from over 20 countries—underscoring the breadth of concern within the sector. The full text of the letter is available on the AIV’s website.

As debate continues ahead of the UN General Assembly vote later this month, many in Europe’s wine regions are watching closely. For them, what is at stake is not just business or tradition but a way of life passed down through generations.