Italy is set to introduce a revolutionary regulation for the wine industry.
The new decree from MASAF aligns with EU Regulation 2021/2117, which allows the production of dealcoholized and partially dealcoholized wines.
This step aims to meet the growing demand for low-alcohol products, addressing the needs of an increasingly diverse global market.
The content of the Decree: rules for production
The decree establishes precise rules to ensure transparency and quality in the production and commercialization of dealcoholized wines.
Below are the key points:
Categories of dealcoholized wines
Dealcoholized wines: alcohol content below 0.5%.
Partially dealcoholized wines: reduced alcohol, with a minimum of 3.5% to 5% depending on the category.
Restrictions
Exclusion of DOP (Denominazione di Origine Protetta) and IGP (Indicazione Geografica Protetta) wines from the dealcoholization process to preserve tradition and quality.
Dealcoholization methods
Only natural processes, such as distillation or vacuum evaporation, are allowed.
The use of artificial sugars or flavors is prohibited.
Management of extracted alcohol
Removed alcohol will be exclusively allocated for industrial use, in compliance with specific fiscal regulations.
Transparent labeling
Clear terms such as “dealcoholized” or “partially dealcoholized” to inform consumers.
Authorized facilities
Dealcoholization processes must take place in certified facilities with appropriate fiscal licenses.
A growing market: leading countries
Several countries have already embraced the dealcoholized and partially dealcoholized wine market with significant success.
France
The no- and low-alcohol wine market grew to €166 million in 2021.
Emphasis on exports and technological innovation.
Germany
Among the pioneers in dealcoholization, with a strong domestic market focus on health-conscious trends.
Spain
High production oriented toward exports, particularly to Latin America and Asia.
United States
California leads the sector, with an estimated market value of $1.6 billion by 2025.
Australia
Significant investments to meet the growing demand in Asia.
Global consumption of dealcoholized wines
The worldwide consumption of low- or no-alcohol wines is rapidly increasing, driven by greater health and wellness awareness.
Europe: France and Germany lead consumption, with a combined market exceeding €260 million.
United States: 45% of consumers are reducing alcohol intake and seeking low-alcohol alternatives.
Asia: Annual growth of 12%, fueled by a young, wellness-focused population.
Middle East: Markets such as the UAE demand non-alcoholic options for religious reasons.
Italy and the challenge of dealcoholized wines
Opportunities for producers
New consumers: Dealcoholized wines can attract younger audiences, health-conscious individuals, and those avoiding alcohol.
Emerging markets: The Middle East, Asia, and North America present vast opportunities.
Innovation: Offering new options without compromising quality.
Limitations for traditional wines
The exclusion of DOP and IGP wines from the dealcoholization process preserves the integrity of iconic products.
Consumer education
Integrating the concept of dealcoholized wines into Italian culture without compromising the perception of quality.
The decree on dealcoholized wines represents a bridge between tradition and innovation for the Italian wine industry. While DOP and IGP wines remain untouched, a new path is opening for common wine producers, allowing them to compete in an emerging international market.
Key takeaways:
Balance: Innovation without compromising cultural roots.
Opportunity: Expanding the presence of Italian wines in new markets.
Sustainability: Rigorous processes to ensure quality and authenticity.
Italy is ready to play a leading role in the no- and low-alcohol wine segment, proving that tradition and modernity can coexist harmoniously.
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