On Tuesday, Nov. 26, the Italian Minister of Agriculture Francesco Lollobrigida met with representatives of the wine industry to discuss dealcohol and low-alcohol wines. During the meeting, he presented a draft of the decree, also developed in response to requests made by producers in previous days. The proposal was welcomed by the wineries, who considered it an important step toward clear and shared regulations for this new product category.
The regulatory context
The possibility of producing low alcohol and no alcohol wines stems from European legislation that allows these beverages to be considered part of the wine category, as long as they meet precise quality standards. Until recently, de-alcoholizing wines above a certain threshold was not allowed in Italy, but with the decree, the landscape changes radically. Now, Italian producers will be able to compete in a fast-growing global market that is estimated to expand strongly in the coming years.
What are alcohol-free and low-alcohol wines?
- Alcohol-free wines (0-0.5% vol): obtained through de-alcoholization processes that preserve the wine’s original aromas and flavors, almost completely eliminating alcohol.
- Low-alcohol wines (up to 5-6% vol): maintain a reduced alcohol content compared to traditional wines, achieved through winemaking techniques or partial de-alcoholisation.
These wines represent an opportunity for those who wish to enjoy the sensory experience of wine without the effects of alcohol, such as those who have to drive, are on a specific diet or prefer to limit alcohol consumption for health reasons.
New regulations for alcohol-free and low-alcohol wines in Italy
The recent ministerial draft decree regulates the production of dealcoholized (with alcohol ≤ 0.5%) and partially dealcoholized (alcohol > 0.5% but less than 8.5-9%) wines, stipulating that these classifications must be indicated on the label.
The rules introduced by the draft decree
- Mandatory classifications: dealcoholized and partially dealcoholized wines must be clearly indicated on the label, next to the original category.
- Exclusions: PDO and PGI wines cannot undergo dealcoholisation processes.
- Approved techniques: vacuum evaporation, membranes and distillation are the permitted methods, but prohibiting the addition of external sugars or flavorings. Recovery of aromas and water extracted from the process is allowed, but only within a closed and automated system.
Prospects for the sector
Unione Italiana Vini (UIV) welcomed the decree, pointing out that although it can be improved, it provides a detailed regulatory framework that protects quality and transparency. In addition, the measure allows for alignment with European competitors, opening up to new markets and consumer targets without undermining demand for conventional wines.
This legislation represents a step toward innovation, reconciling the needs of modernity with respect for the Italian wine-making tradition.