An annual publication by Vignaioli Piemontesi and the Piedmont Region. Estimated +5% in Wine Production, Strong Performance of DOP Reds wines abroad
An estimated 2.25 million hectoliters were produced in the 2024 harvest. Piedmont ranks as Italy’s second wine-producing region, with a turnover of €1.248 billion. Focus on international markets by Nomisma.
Following the conclusion of the grape harvest in mid-October, an assessment of the 2024 wine year highlights a season marked by a warm, humid climate that interrupted the drought trends of recent years. This unusual weather pattern presented significant challenges to Piedmontese winegrowers, with highly variable outcomes depending on vineyard locations and the effectiveness of pest control measures, which were tested by persistent rains. Despite the difficulties, the season’s balance is positive, with grapes yielding wines aligned with market trends favoring lower alcohol content.
Preliminary estimates indicate production exceeding 2.25 million hectoliters (+5%) compared to 2.06 million in 2023. Final figures will be available after the December 20 deadline for production declarations. Experts note that a meticulous approach in the cellar will be key to maximizing the potential of a challenging yet promising vintage. They anticipate that time and enological expertise will reveal authentic and remarkable expressions from this year’s harvest.
Piedmont continues to be Italy’s second-largest wine-producing region in terms of economic impact, with a sector turnover of €1.248 billion. On thefront, Piedmontese DOP reds wines have grown by approximately 1% in value (+4.4% in volume), driven by significant recoveries in Canada (+49%) and growth in Sweden (+14%), Japan, and the United States (both +10%).
These findings were analyzed by enologists, agronomists, and industry journalists in The 2024 Piedmont Wine Year, an annual publication by Vignaioli Piemontesi and the Piedmont Region. The report consolidates over 30 years of data collection, offering technical analyses and economic evaluations of the viticulture sector. Presented at the Grinzane Cavour Castle, it includes insights into grape maturity and climatic trends across Piedmont’s wine-growing areas.
Key Regional Statements
–Paolo Bongioanni, Regional Agriculture Councillor: “Wine is central to our vision for Piedmont’s agricultural development. For the first time, this legislature consolidates regional mandates for commerce, agriculture, food, hunting, fishing, and parks, enabling an integrated approach to regional growth, the culture of taste, and the promotion of gastronomic tourism. With €750 million from the 2023-2027 Rural Development Complement, we support agricultural businesses, consortia, and regional wine shops from vineyard cultivation to promotion.”
–Marina Chiarelli, Regional Tourism Councillor:“Piedmont reaffirms its leadership in national wine production and revenue. Our international success is due to a synergy of tradition and innovation, making our wines globally renowned. Our commitment is to further strengthen Piedmont’s global presence and enhance the value of our extraordinary local products, which attract high-quality tourism.”
Technical and Market Insights
Denis Pantini (Nomisma) analyzed the global market performance of Piedmontese wines, which rank second nationally for export value after Veneto. While the first nine months of 2024 showed a slight dip in export value (-0.4%) following a 6% decline in 2023, PDO reds continued to grow. However, Asti sparkling wine saw declines in Germany (-9%), Austria (-14%), and Poland (-20%), though exports to Russia surged (+51%). Structural changes in consumer preferences, including a focus on sustainability and lower-alcohol wines, continue to shape the market.
Harvest Data 2024
– Total wine production increased by 5%, with over 2.25 million hectoliters produced.
– Italian production overall is estimated at 41 million hectoliters (+7%).
– Piedmont vineyards covered an estimated 44,471 hectares, reflecting a slight increase over 2023.
– Wines with designation of origin accounted for 2.10 million hectoliters (83% of regional production).
Economic and Export Figures
Piedmont generates €1.248 billion in wine-related revenue, representing 13.7% of Italy’s total. Approximately 60% of production is exported, with 70% going to EU countries and 30% to non-EU markets.
Funding and Development Initiatives
For 2024-2025, the Piedmont Region allocated nearly €19 million for wine promotion, restructuring, and marketing initiatives, including:
– €7.5 million for third-country market promotion.
– €7.6 million for vineyard restructuring and conversion.
– €3.7 million for investments.
Presentations and slides from the event are available for download at www.vignaioli.it