The French government will allocate 200 million euros to finance the destruction of wine surpluses.

Several wine regions, especially Bordeaux, are facing problems related to changes in consumption habits, the economic crisis and the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic. The Bordeaux farmers' association reports an oversupply of wine which has led to a drastic drop in prices and financial difficulties for a third of producers. Initially, the European Union allocated 160 million euros for the destruction of the wine, but the French government has increased the amount to 200 million. Agriculture Minister Marc Fesneau said these funds aim to prevent further price collapses and provide new sources of income for producers, but also underline the need to adapt to consumer changes and new market dynamics. The Languedoc wine region was equally affected by the decrease in demand for wine. The alcohol obtained from the destruction of wine could be used in non-food sectors such as disinfectants, cleaning products or perfumes. Earlier, the agriculture ministry announced €57 million to clear vineyards and stimulate a transition to other crops, such as olives. At the European level, the Commission had noted drops in wine consumption in the current year, with decreases of 7% in Italy, 10% in Spain, 15% in France, 22% in Germany and 34% in Portugal. The most affected regions are those producing red and rosé wines in France, Spain and Portugal.