A mild spring and early summer favored a regular growing season and an early harvest , especially in the North. The result is a quality profile that promises fresh, long-lived wines in the northern regions, balanced in the Central regions, and structured and deep in the South.
The key points of the Italian vintage
Production on the rise
After two years of decline, overall volumes have regained momentum, returning to historical levels. With over 47 million hectoliters, Italy remains the world's leading producer , ahead of France, Spain, and the United States.
High quality from North to South
Northern Italy: Excellent ripening, intact grapes, and pronounced aromas. Early fermentations yield particularly clean and balanced white wines.
– Central Italy: good temperature ranges and limited phytosanitary pressure favored a uniform harvest.
– Southern Italy: structured and highly expressive reds, with sugar levels well balanced by natural acidity.
Stable stocks
Despite the increase in production, inventories as of September 30, 2025, remain essentially stable. This indicates a dynamic, yet still fragile, market.
The hot topic: Grape prices don't cover costs
The 2025 harvest is generous in terms of quality, but the economic situation is growing. Claudio Conterno, president of Cia Cuneo, raises a warning that resonates in many other areas of Italy: "With this year's averages, it's difficult to maintain the vineyards."
According to Conterno, a fair price for grapes should start at €1.20/kg , a value that now coincides with the simple cost of production. Despite this, the campaign has seen strong fluctuations: in July, demand was virtually nonexistent, and during the harvest, the market suddenly suffered from a shortage of produce.
Conterno also highlights another critical issue: the industry's influence on price formation. In the Langhe, he recalls, 70% of grapes are vinified directly by the producers , 20% by cooperatives, and only a small portion by the industry. Yet, the industry continues to significantly influence the value of grapes, even in areas where production costs—including land—are incomparable.
In parallel, the CIA president addressed the issue of wine's image: "Wine is often demonized, while other beverages with a much greater impact on health are almost never questioned. Wine, consumed in moderation, is part of our landscape, our culture, and our work."
The global picture: low production, but a more stable market
While Italy is enjoying a positive season, the rest of the world is experiencing a delicate balance. The OIV, in its report published in November 2025, estimates global production of 232 million hectoliters : the third lowest ever .
The figure represents a very timid increase compared to 2024 (3%), but remains 7% lower than the five-year average.
Paradoxically, this isn't bad news. Reduced production actually helps stabilize the global market , amid weak demand, high inventories, and persistent trade tensions.
The main producers in 2025
– Italy : 47.3 million hl, 8%
– France : 35.9 million hl, -1% (second lowest harvest since 1957)
– Spain : 29.4 million hl, -6%
– United States : 21.7 mln/hl, 3%
– Australia : 11.6 million/hl, 11%
– Argentina : 10.7 million/hl, -1%
Europe between recoveries and difficulties
Italy leads the continent, while France, Spain, Germany, and Portugal continue to suffer from unfavorable weather conditions. Romania bucks the trend, growing by 30% to over 4 million hectoliters.
Southern Hemisphere recovering
After three difficult harvests, the Southern Hemisphere records a 7% increase.
Australia, South Africa, New Zealand and Brazil are all showing positive trends, thanks to more favourable weather conditions.
An encouraging harvest, a market that demands stability
2025 confirms the strength of Italian viticulture, both in terms of quantity and quality. The challenge now is economic: ensuring profitability for producers, containing market fluctuations, and enhancing a production that, year after year, demonstrates resilience and adaptability.
An Italy that continues to be a world leader cannot fail to recognize the true value of the grapes, the work in the vineyard, and the cultural heritage that each bottle brings. The 2025 harvest is a starting point; the future will depend on the supply chain's ability to find a more stable and sustainable balance.
