
Global wine production fell to a 63-year low, according to new data from the International Organisation of Vine and Wine (OIV). Frost, heavy rains and drought besieged vineyards throughout 2024, with global wine production reaching just 231 million hl. OIV said that the Southern Hemisphere saw its lowest output in 20 years. Argentina was a brighter spot, with production increased by 23%. Chile experienced a sharp decline, with production down 15% year-on-year. Volumes were up 5% in Australia but still 16% below the five-year average. South Africa’s production was projected to drop 5% from last year. “Significant declines” were also predicted in the Northern Hemisphere. In the EU, production in 2024 was expected to be 11% below the five-year average. Italy reclaimed its position as the world’s largest producer, with an estimated production of 41 million hl. Hungary, Georgia and Greece expected strong years, but there were sharp declines in most other countries, including Germany, Portugal, Romania, Austria and Switzerland. The United States, the fourth-largest wine producer globally, was forecast to produce 23.6 million hl, down 3% from last year but in line with average production volumes. Adverse weather was the biggest factor across the declines. Overall, worldwide production volume was forecast between 227 million and 235 million hl, with a mid-range estimate of 231 million hl.