European wine sector reforms enter final negotiation phase as trilogue talks begin in Brussels

The European Commission’s “wine package” has entered its final negotiation phase after the deadline for submitting comments on proposed amendments closed on July 3. The legislative file now moves to the trilogue stage, where representatives from the European Parliament, the Council, and the Commission will negotiate the definitive content of the new regulations. Institutions and organizations within the European wine sector are closely monitoring the process and advocating for improvements to the current draft. According to the official timeline, final approval of the package is expected in early 2026.

The wine package was first introduced in March as a legislative proposal aimed at strengthening the competitiveness of the wine sector across the European Union. The initiative, presented by Commissioner Christophe Hansen, addresses several challenges currently facing wine producers. These include shifting consumer preferences, the impact of climate change, and ongoing market instability. The proposal seeks to ensure the long-term economic sustainability of European wine production.

Key measures in the package include actions to adjust production capacity, adapt to new consumption trends, and create new commercial opportunities. One of the main proposals allows member states to take steps to prevent overproduction. This could involve tools such as vine grubbing-up or green harvesting—removing grape clusters before they ripen—to stabilize markets and protect producers from economic losses.

The package also proposes greater flexibility for winegrowers regarding vineyard replanting. Member states would be able to adjust planting authorization systems according to national or regional needs, allowing investment decisions to better reflect current conditions. Another significant change is an increase in financial support for projects related to climate adaptation and mitigation. The proposal would allow EU funding to cover up to 80 percent of investment costs for initiatives that address climate change impacts.

In terms of trade, the package aims to facilitate the marketing of new products with lower alcohol content by introducing common standards and harmonized designations within the single market. Labeling requirements will also be updated, with a more uniform approach across the EU intended to reduce costs, simplify cross-border trade, and provide clearer information for consumers.

Wine tourism is set to receive a boost through targeted support for producer groups responsible for wines with protected geographical indications. These groups would be eligible for funding to develop tourism activities centered around wine production. Additionally, EU-funded promotional campaigns in non-EU countries will be extended from three years to five years, giving producers more time to establish a presence in foreign markets.

The proposal follows work by the High-Level Group on Wine Policy, which was established to gather input from stakeholders across member states. The European Committee of Wine Companies (CEEV) has welcomed the Commission’s swift action in translating most of the group’s recommendations into legal proposals within just three months of their publication. CEEV President Marzia Varvaglione expressed appreciation for this rapid progress and noted that while EU regulations cannot solve all challenges facing the sector, they can provide a supportive framework during a difficult period.

As negotiations continue in Brussels, industry representatives remain engaged with policymakers and are providing regular updates on developments. The outcome of these talks will shape how Europe’s wine sector adapts to changing conditions over the coming years and decades.