Argentine Wine Faces its Most Serious Crisis in 15 Years

Once a thriving wine industry, Argentina is experiencing its most serious crisis in the last 15 years. Winemakers are facing record low domestic consumption, a decrease in exports, and low harvest yields, as reported by agronews.ua.

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The Washington Times states that wine consumption in Argentina dropped to a historic minimum of 15.7 liters per person in 2025, according to the National Institute of Viticulture (INV). For comparison, in 1970 Argentinians consumed up to 90 liters per person per year. Additionally, 1,100 vineyards across the country have closed, with their area reduced by 3,276 hectares.

Fabian Ruggieri, President of the Argentine Wine Corp trade group, attributes this decline to a “sharp drop in purchasing power” that began in 2023. According to him, this trend is most noticeable among consumers with medium and low incomes, who traditionally consumed wine daily.

Federico Gambetta, director of the Altos Las Hormigas winery, believes the crisis is exacerbated by changes in consumption patterns.

“People are no longer consuming wine in mass quantities,” Gambetta said, noting that today consumers seek “integrity” and meaning in their purchases.

While older generations preferred strong, full-bodied wines, younger consumers prioritize other qualities such as “affordability, freshness, and lightness.” These qualities are typically associated with white and rosé wines.

The international market does not offer much relief. According to INV, Argentina, which ranks 11th in the world for wine exports, saw a decrease in exports to 193 million liters in 2025 – a 6.8% decrease compared to the previous year and the lowest volume since 2004.

Ruggieri points out that exports are hindered by financing problems, high logistical costs, and lack of competitiveness due to external tariffs. For example, Argentina faces tariffs ranging from 10% to 20%.

Теги: Argentine wine, Argentinian wine consumption, Consumption Patterns, domestic consumption, Export decrease, external tariffs, financing issues, harvest yields, international market, Logistical costs, low consumption, purchasing power decline, vineyard closures, wine exports, wine industry crisis, wine industry trends., wine market challenges, wine preferences, wine trade group