New Sparkling Wine Producers Rise in Europe

Changing consumer preferences and climate change are enabling new sparkling wine producers from regions like the UK and Sweden to enter the market, challenging established players. Edouard Cassanet, a representative from the National Federation of Crémant Producers in France, highlighted the "Prosecco effect," which has significantly boosted sparkling wine consumption across Europe. In 2023, Crémant production surged by 5.7%, reaching 108 million bottles, while traditional sparkling wines like Champagne remain priced between €25 and €50, making Crémant's sub-€20 price point appealing to consumers. Spain's Cava also experienced remarkable growth, producing a record 252 million bottles in 2023, marking a 3.9% increase from the previous year. The value of Cava exports rose by 10.6%, reflecting a broader trend in sparkling wine's popularity. In Italy, sparkling wines and white wines now represent over a quarter of total wine exports, valued at €885.1 million annually, with a notable 9.1% increase in the first five months of 2024 compared to 2023. The primary markets for these exports are the United States and the United Kingdom, with Prosecco, Champagne, and Cava dominating the market share. The rise in sparkling wine demand, coupled with climate change, is attracting new competitors from northern Europe. The warming climate is making it increasingly viable to produce sparkling wines in traditionally cooler regions. For instance, the Solaris grape, developed in Germany, thrives in these conditions. As noted by researcher Touzard, the established consumption of sparkling wine in northern Europe, combined with climate shifts, presents new opportunities for producers looking to capitalize on this growing market.