T. Ozbun
Research expert covering food retail and all food topics for Italy and Brazil
Wine market in Italy- statistics & facts
Wine, an alcoholic beverage produced by fermentation of grapes, is a staple of Italy and Italian culture. In fact, Italy was one of the countries with the highest number of liters consumed, and a per capita consumption of wine that placed it third, following only Portugal and Luxembourg. Wine is suitable for various convivial and social occasions, as a traditional Italian aperitif, for fairs and other special events, or simply for socializing with friends and acquaintances. Most often though, wine is consumed as an accompaniment to a meal. A wide range of wines exist to suit all taste preferences: commonly consumed wines are typically red or white, in their sparkling, semi-sparkling or still versions.
Wine is a staple in Italy, with high consumption among its citizens, and the country still maintains its position as one of the leading global producers and exporters of the alcoholic beverage.
Production
The global wine production market is dominated by Italy, followed by other traditional wine producing countries - France and Spain. Close to 44 million hectoliters of wine were produced in the country in 2024, with a quarter of the total production coming from just one region, Veneto. The total area cultivated for wine grape harvesting in Italy amounted to roughly 665,000 hectares as of 2024. In addition, organic wine production was widespread and growing. In fact, the area devoted to organic viticulture was quite extensive and pronounced in regions such as Sicily and Tuscany.Trade
Given its position as a wine producing country, Italy was also an important wine exporter, especially when looking at regional supplier figures, where Veneto, Tuscany, and Piedmont occupied the first three positions. Additionally, in 2025, the leading destination countries for Italian wine exports were the United States, Germany, and the United Kingdom.Certifications
Additionally, certified wine production was an important segment of the Italian wine industry. Two main certifications exist: Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) and Protected Geographical Indication (PGI), which counted 409 and 119 products as of 2024. At the regional level, Piedmont, Tuscany and Veneto counted the greatest number of PDO and PGI wine products. PDO, particularly with regard to red wines, was the most valued and exported worldwide.Wine is a staple in Italy, with high consumption among its citizens, and the country still maintains its position as one of the leading global producers and exporters of the alcoholic beverage.
