Italy is poised to reclaim its position as the world’s largest wine producer in 2024, overtaking France, whose vineyards have been severely impacted by unfavorable weather. This shift comes as both countries report production figures through their agricultural authorities.
Following a difficult 2023 harvest, Italy’s wine production is expected to recover by 8%, reaching between 41 million and 42 million hectolitres, according to Coldiretti, Italy’s leading agricultural association. Meanwhile, France’s agriculture ministry projects an 18% drop in production to 39.3 million hectolitres, driven by weather challenges.
While Italy’s 2024 output is set to improve, it remains below the recent average as regions across the country grapple with either heavy rainfall or drought. Italy has consistently held the top spot in global wine production since 2007, except in 2011, 2014, and 2023 when France narrowly surpassed it, according to the International Organisation of Vine and Wine (OIV).
Coldiretti explained that Italy is experiencing a “north-south divide” in weather conditions. Northern regions have been affected by intense rain and hail during spring and early summer, while southern regions and Sicily have faced drought, leading to earlier-than-usual harvests in some areas.
In France, the biggest declines are expected in the eastern Jura region, where frost and mildew are predicted to cause a staggering 71% drop in production. The Charente region in the west will see the largest volume decrease, with a 35% reduction, while production in the Loire Valley is set to fall by 30%. The Burgundy-Beaujolais region, hit hard by hail, will see a 25% drop.
