Leaders From 23 Regions Unite to Defend Europe’s Wine Industry Amid Climate and Economic Threats

On Tuesday, October 21, in Strasbourg, leaders from 23 wine-producing regions across 10 European countries gathered to sign a new declaration supporting the future of European wine. The event took place during the second edition of the European Wine Day, hosted by Franck Leroy, president of France’s Grand-Est region and head of the Association of European Wine Regions (AREV). The declaration, called the Strasbourg Appeal for a Proudly Viticultural Europe, aims to remind political leaders of the cultural and economic importance of wine production across the continent.

The signatories represent regions from Germany, Austria, Belgium, Spain, France, Luxembourg, the Czech Republic, and Romania. Their message is clear: defending viticulture is not just about protecting an agricultural product. It is about supporting rural communities, preserving jobs, and maintaining local traditions that have shaped Europe’s identity for centuries.

The appeal comes at a time when Europe’s vineyards are facing significant challenges. Climate change has brought unpredictable weather and new diseases to grapevines. Economic uncertainty and geopolitical tensions have disrupted trade. Competition from other wine-producing countries and beverages is increasing. In addition, ongoing discussions in Brussels about changes to wine regulations—known as the “wine package”—have raised concerns among producers about the future of their industry.

During the event, Franck Leroy emphasized that the situation is serious. He pointed to the combined effects of climate change, shifting consumer habits, international competition, American tariffs on European wines, and broader economic difficulties. According to Leroy, these factors threaten not only wine producers but also everyone involved in the sector—from vineyard workers to those in tourism and logistics.

Italian Member of the European Parliament Dario Nardella addressed attendees by highlighting wine’s role as a cultural asset. He argued that wine is more than an agricultural product; it is part of Europe’s heritage and collective memory. Nardella called on policymakers to treat wine as a cultural good that deserves protection and promotion at both national and European levels.

French MEP Éric Sargiacomo echoed this sentiment. He said that supporting viticulture through regulation and funding is not charity but a necessary investment in rural economies. Sargiacomo stressed that thousands of people depend on the wine sector for their livelihoods and that effective support can prevent fear and hardship in these communities.

The Strasbourg Appeal calls for several concrete actions. It urges European authorities to recognize wine’s unique cultural status in future legislation. It asks for continued financial support for the sector under the Common Agricultural Policy after 2027. The signatories also want stronger protection for European wines in international trade agreements and more support for wine tourism and promotional activities.

At the end of European Wine Day, Franck Leroy noted some positive developments in recent policy discussions but insisted that more needs to be done. He said that defending Europe’s vineyards means defending a way of life that benefits entire regions and contributes to Europe’s global reputation.

The declaration concludes with a question: Will Europe continue to recognize and support its vineyards? The answer from regional leaders is yes—they see viticulture as a source of wealth and opportunity for their territories and for Europe as a whole. They believe that supporting wine production is essential for maintaining Europe’s cultural influence around the world.

The 23 regions signing the appeal include major French wine areas such as Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, Occitanie, Nouvelle-Aquitaine, and Grand-Est; German states like Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria; Spanish regions including Castilla-La Mancha and Catalunya; as well as representatives from Austria, Belgium, Luxembourg, Romania, and the Czech Republic. Their joint effort marks a significant step in advocating for a strong future for European wine amid growing challenges.