The EU Council has published an information note on a legislative proposal to amend EU rules governing the wine and aromatised wine sector, aiming to address structural challenges such as declining consumption, market instability, and climate change. The proposal, which adjusts market rules and support measures, would impact wine producers, consumers, and national authorities across the EU.
The information note, dated 2 November 2026, outlines amendments to Regulations (EU) No 1308/2013 (CMO), (EU) 2021/2115 (CAP Strategic Plans), and (EU) No 251/2014 (aromatised wines). The document is a preliminary step in the legislative process, providing an overview of the Commission's proposal for Council consideration.
Key Proposals The proposal includes extending the vine planting authorisation scheme beyond its current expiry date, introducing more flexibility for Member States to manage production potential, and updating rules for producing and labelling de-alcoholised wines. These measures aim to stabilise the market and help the sector adapt to changing consumer preferences and climate impacts.
Policy Trade-offs The proposal balances support for producers with market liberalisation. Extending planting authorisations provides stability for growers but may limit flexibility for new entrants. Flexibility for Member States could lead to divergent national approaches, potentially fragmenting the single market. Updated labelling rules for de-alcoholised wines may boost innovation and meet consumer demand for low-alcohol products, but could increase compliance costs for producers.
Impact on Stakeholders - Wine producers: Benefit from extended planting authorisations and new market opportunities for de-alcoholised wines, but face costs for adapting labelling and production processes. - Consumers: Gain clearer labelling and more product choices, particularly low-alcohol options. - National authorities: Receive greater discretion to tailor measures to local conditions, but must manage potential market fragmentation. - EU institutions: The proposal requires co-decision by the European Parliament and Council, with negotiations expected to focus on the scope of Member State flexibility and the duration of planting authorisations.
Next Steps The Council will discuss the proposal in its Agriculture and Fisheries configuration, with the European Parliament expected to begin its examination in early 2027. The legislative process is likely to take 12–18 months.
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