France Overtakes Rivals to Become World’s Third-Largest Market for Prosecco DOC

2026-02-16

French consumers drive demand for Italian sparkling wine as Prosecco DOC production and exports reach record highs worldwide

France has become the world’s third-largest market for Prosecco DOC, according to recent consumer surveys whose full results will be released soon. The data shows that French consumers are increasingly choosing Prosecco DOC, citing the wine’s intrinsic value as a key factor in their preference. This development is part of a broader global trend for the Italian sparkling wine.

In 2025, Prosecco DOC production reached 667 million bottles, marking a 1.1% increase from 2024. Of this total, more than 82% was exported to over 160 countries across five continents. The announcement was made at the close of Wine Paris & Vinexpo Paris 2026, where the Prosecco DOC Consortium concluded its participation after hosting 34 companies from the Veneto-Friuli region in a 128-square-meter exhibition space.

Giancarlo Guidolin, president of the Prosecco DOC Protection Consortium, commented on the findings, stating that international appreciation for Prosecco DOC is based on its recognized quality and unique character. He emphasized that this success comes despite the absence of targeted promotional campaigns in France, apart from participation in the Paris wine show. Guidolin also noted that Prosecco DOC’s growing popularity in France is achieved with respect for the country’s own prestigious sparkling wines, including Champagne.

During the Paris event, seven co-exhibitors—Cantina Montelliana, Cantine Borga, Salatin Vini, San Martino Vini, San Simone, Tenuta San Giorgio, and Vini La Delizia—had dedicated stations at the Prosecco DOC stand. An institutional desk offered tastings from 27 additional producers, giving visitors a broad overview of the region’s offerings.

The presence at Wine Paris & Vinexpo Paris is part of a larger strategy called “Road to the Games.” As the Official Sparkling Wine of the Milan Cortina 2026 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, Prosecco DOC is featured at all Olympic venues throughout the event from February 6 to February 22. This partnership aims to further raise the profile of Prosecco DOC on an international stage and reinforce its position as a leading Italian sparkling wine.

The continued growth in production and exports reflects strong demand worldwide. The French market’s rise to third place highlights changing consumer tastes and an openness to international sparkling wines alongside traditional favorites. The Prosecco DOC Consortium plans to build on this momentum as it prepares for future events and ongoing global expansion.