France’s Wine Output Nears Historic Lows

The International Organisation of Vine and Wine (OIV) released its first estimates for global wine production in 2025, reporting a modest recovery from last year’s historic low. The OIV projects worldwide wine output to reach between 228 and 235 million hectoliters, with a mid-range estimate of 232 million hectoliters. This figure is about 3% higher than the 2024 harvest but remains 7% below the average of the past five years.

In the European Union, which continues to produce about 60% of the world’s wine, production is expected to reach around 140 million hectoliters in 2025. This represents a slight increase of 2.1 million hectoliters, or 2%, compared to last year. However, even with this uptick, EU wine output is still projected to be 8% below its five-year average. If these numbers are confirmed at the end of the harvest season, 2025 will mark the second-lowest level of EU wine production since the start of the century.

France, traditionally one of the world’s leading wine producers, faces another challenging year. The OIV estimates French wine production at 35.9 million hectoliters for 2025. This would be France’s second consecutive year of historically low output and stands about 16% below its five-year average. The main causes are ongoing heat and drought conditions that have reduced yields in several key regions. In addition to adverse weather, vineyard restructuring has played a role. Notably, Bordeaux and Languedoc-Roussillon saw a reduction of about 20,000 hectares in vineyard area, further impacting overall production.

The situation across French wine regions is uneven. Champagne, the Loire Valley, and Burgundy experienced more favorable weather this year and are expected to see moderate increases in their harvests. In contrast, Bordeaux, Languedoc-Roussillon, Charentes, Alsace, and Beaujolais continue to struggle with climatic stress and disease pressure, leading to further declines in output.

If current estimates hold through the end of the season, France’s total wine production in 2025 would be its lowest since 1957, when it reached just 32.5 million hectoliters. The combination of climate challenges and structural changes in vineyards has created significant uncertainty for French winemakers as they look ahead to future harvests.

The OIV’s early figures highlight ongoing volatility in global wine production due to changing weather patterns and evolving industry practices. As France and other major producers adapt to these challenges, both growers and consumers are watching closely for signs of stability or further disruption in the years ahead.