Chapter 24 - European wine policy framework—The path toward sustainability

Abstract

This chapter presents the European Union's wine policy and regulatory framework and discusses the main issues to be addressed in the wine sector's path toward increased sustainability. Policy choices taken in 2008 assured that the European wine sector became competitive in both the internal and foreign markets. In the next 20years, sustainability and addressing the concerns of EU citizens about environment, food, and health are the major challenges for the European wine sector. In this context, the EU wine sector will need to address mainly the issues related to pesticide use reduction, unlocking possibilities of exploring genetic potential of the genus Vitis, incorporate low alcohol wine-based drinks within the wine definition, and provide relevant nutritional and ingredient information to consumers.