Trends

Reuters reports that global wine exports fell to their lowest level since 2009, while consumption dropped to its weakest level since 1957, according to OIV data. Exports declined 4.7% by volume to 94.8 million hectolitres, while global consumption slipped 2.7% to 208 million hectolitres, with US tariffs, economic pressure, climate disruption and changing consumer tastes all weighing on the sector.

WineBusiness.com reports that its 2026 WineBusiness Monthly Vineyard Survey found 18% of respondents had permanently removed vineyard acreage in the past year, underlining the pressure on growers from rising costs and wider market challenges. The survey frames removals as one response to difficult economics in grape growing, alongside broader concern about how growers are adapting to cost inflation and weaker demand.

Harpers reports that Ocado data shows mid-strength drinks demand is growing sharply, with category sales up 71% over two years and searches up more than 400%. Mid-strength wine was singled out as especially strong, with sales up 151% year on year, as consumers increasingly look to moderate rather than cut out alcohol.

Wine-Searcher reports that white wine is continuing to pull away from red, arguing that the shift is now visible not just in anecdotes but in production and sales data across multiple countries. The piece says white now accounts for 49% of all wine made globally, with OIV data showing red’s share down from about 48% in 2000 to roughly 43% today, while white production has risen and consumption has jumped by 57.5% in the US, 29.3% in Australia and 20.3% in the UK, making this one of the clearest signs that consumer preferences are moving towards fresher, lighter styles.