European Parliament Approves Sweeping Reforms to Strengthen EU Wine Sector

The European Parliament has approved new legislation aimed at strengthening the wine sector across the European Union. On Tuesday, members of the European Parliament voted 625 in favor, 15 against, with 11 abstentions, to back a provisional agreement reached with EU member states in December 2025. The new rules are designed to address ongoing challenges faced by wine producers and to open up new market opportunities.

One of the key changes involves clearer labeling for wines that have reduced or no alcohol content. Under the new rules, wines can be labeled as “alcohol-free” with the term “0.0%” if their alcohol-by-volume does not exceed 0.05%. Wines with an alcohol content above 0.5% but at least 30% lower than the standard for their category before de-alcoholization must be labeled as “alcohol reduced.” This measure aims to provide consumers with more transparent information and help producers market these products more effectively.

The legislation also introduces increased financial support and flexibility for wine producers, especially in response to severe natural disasters, extreme weather events, or outbreaks of plant diseases. Winegrowers affected by such events will be eligible for additional aid. The new rules allow EU funds to be used for “grubbing up,” which refers to removing old or diseased vines to improve vineyard health and productivity. The national payment ceiling for wine distillation and green harvesting is set at 25% of the total available funds per member state.

To boost wine tourism and exports, the legislation provides extra support for promotional activities. Measures that encourage economic growth in rural areas and promote high-quality European wines in non-EU countries can receive up to 60% financing from the EU. Member states may add up to 30% more funding for small and medium-sized enterprises and up to 20% for larger companies. Eligible activities include advertising campaigns, events, exhibitions, and market studies. These initiatives can be financed for three years at a time, with renewals possible for up to nine years in total.

Esther Herranz García, the rapporteur for the legislation from Spain’s EPP group, said the law offers a timely response to the crisis facing Europe’s wine sector. She highlighted that the measures include increased funding for crisis management, improved conditions for promotional activities, and higher co-financing rates to help farmers adapt more quickly to climate change. According to Herranz García, member states will now have a stronger set of tools to address challenges affecting wine producers in different regions.

The provisional agreement still requires approval from the Council before it can take effect across the EU. If adopted, these measures are expected to provide significant support for wine producers as they navigate changing market conditions and environmental challenges.