28 Apr 2026, 09:56 Updated: 19m ago
France plans to remove tens of thousands of hectares of vineyards as part of a €130 million effort to help the wine sector adapt to falling demand and climate challenges.
28 Apr 2026, 09:56 | Updated: 19m ago
a vineyard nr Gignac at dawn l Herault valley Languedoc France NR.
Picture:
Alamy
France is set to remove around 28,000 hectares of vineyards under a state-backed plan aimed at helping the wine sector adapt to falling demand and climate pressures.
The scheme, led by FranceAgriMer, has attracted nearly 6,000 applications from growers seeking financial support to clear vines, particularly in south-west regions such as Bordeaux and Languedoc.
Around 37% of the vineyards will be removed entirely, with some producers leaving the industry, while others will partially uproot older vines to restructure production.
Backed by 130 million euros in funding, the programme offers 4,000 euros per hectare removed, with work due to be completed by the end of 2026.
The move reflects wider challenges facing the sector, including declining red wine consumption, changing drinking habits and climate-related pressures, with some producers now exploring alternative crops or scaling back operations.
Dining and Cooking