Dealcoholized and partially dealcoholized wines: Italy steps onto the stage

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:

1. 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.

2. Restrictions

   • Exclusion of DOP (Denominazione di Origine Protetta) and IGP (Indicazione Geografica Protetta) wines from the dealcoholization process to preserve tradition and quality.

3. Dealcoholization methods

   • Only natural processes, such as distillation or vacuum evaporation, are allowed.

   • The use of artificial sugars or flavors is prohibited.

4. Management of extracted alcohol

   • Removed alcohol will be exclusively allocated for industrial use, in compliance with specific fiscal regulations.

5. Transparent labeling

   • Clear terms such as “dealcoholized” or “partially dealcoholized” to inform consumers.

6. 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.

1. France

   • The no- and low-alcohol wine market grew to €166 million in 2021.

   • Emphasis on exports and technological innovation.

2. Germany

   • Among the pioneers in dealcoholization, with a strong domestic market focus on health-conscious trends.

3. Spain

   • High production oriented toward exports, particularly to Latin America and Asia.

4. United States

   • California leads the sector, with an estimated market value of $1.6 billion by 2025.

5. 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

1. 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.

2. Limitations for traditional wines

   • The exclusion of DOP and IGP wines from the dealcoholization process preserves the integrity of iconic products.

3. 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.