Based on data reported by OIV (International Organisation of Vine and Wine), the estimated production of wine in 2020 is around 253,9-262,2 Mio hl, with an increase of 1% with respect to 2019. After the excessive production recorded in 2018, the production volume is still below average.
In the European Union, the weather conditions favoured the growth of the crop in 2020, but the measures taken at government level have reduced the volume of crops, trying to reduce the negative consequences of the pandemic on the market. The estimated production volume of wine is approximately 159 Mio hl (higher than 2019).
The three main producers of wine (Italy, France and Spain) have recorded different production data. In Italy a 1% decrease has been recorded, with respect to 2019, while France and Spain have recorded a decrease of 4% and 11% respectively.
As far as Germany, Hungary and Austria are concerned, an increase has been recorded, while Portugal has remained stable. In Romania and Greece, instead, the production volume has decreased.
It can be observed how European Union has recorded an overall increase in the production of wine, apart from some slight decreases which range from 1% to 7%.
In countries outside the EU the situation is different, as an overall decrease has been recorded. As far as United States are concerned, data are not available yet, as they are waiting to have more information on the damages caused by the fires in the regions of Napa and Sonoma. According to the first estimates a production increase of 1%, with respect to 2019, is predicted.
In the southern hemisphere a sharp drop in wine production has been recorded, compared to 2019.
In south America, because of the unfavourable weather conditions, Argentina and Chile are mostly affected by the production decrease, recording a fall of 17% and 13% respectively.
In Brazil the production volume is in line with the previous year, but it is decreasing by 15% compared to the last five-year average.
Australia, with a production volume of 10,6 Mio hl, too has recorded a decrease of 11% with respect to 2019 and of 16% with respect to the last five-year average. This could be caused by the adverse weather conditions, characterized by drought and fires. In fact, the contaminants of the smoke have compromised part of the crop.
In New Zealand, instead, the trend is in the opposite direction, as the increase amounts to 11% compared to 2019.
ITALY IN DETAIL
According to Corriere Vinicolo, in Italy the estimated production volume amounts to 46,6 Mio hl of wine and must (-2% compared to 2019).
The good weather conditions, the well distributed rain and the normal temperature have favoured a positive ripening of the grapes and a better quality with respect to 2019. However, some regions have recorded a production drop, more or less significant, favoured by climatic factors and regulatory measures (reduction of production of grapes per hectare or green harvesting).
In conclusion, on the whole Italy has recorded a slight production decline with respect to 2019, but in 2021 the quality is expected to be better.
*sources: OIV and CORRIERE VINICOLO
