France will produce significantly less wine this year than last year, as a large amount of moisture has fueled the development of mold in vineyards, and some areas have also suffered from hail and frost, the Ministry of Agriculture announced.

Preliminary estimates from the ministry indicate that 40 to 43 million hectoliters of wine will be produced this year, compared to 47.9 million hectoliters in 2023.

This means that production would not even reach the five-year average of 44.2 million hectoliters.

The wet start to summer favored the development of mold in most wine-growing areas, which can cause major losses, the ministry points out, noting that due to humidity and low temperatures during flowering, vines in many vineyards lose flowers, leaves and berries.

The decline in production may be mitigated by wet soil and a later start to the growing season, by one to two weeks compared to last year, they add.

In the Bordeaux region, the area of ​​vineyards has shrunk by around 8 hectares (19.768 acres) following grubbing that is supposed to curb overproduction. Production could also be reduced by mold and hail, meaning it will be down for the second year in a row.

It is currently not possible to estimate how reduced production will affect wine prices. Big producers usually raise prices for small harvests, but this year they have to take into account strong competition on world markets.

Otherwise, wine and spirits are among France's main export products.