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Sparkling wine boom: Champagne and prosecco consumption doubles in 20 years
The world’s appetite for sparkling wines has doubled in the past two decades, according to the International Organisation of Vine and Wine (OIV). Driven by the unstoppable success of prosecco, global production and consumption of sparkling wines have soared — even as still wine sales stagnate.
Italy, now the leading producer, accounts for one-third of global output, with exports rising 12% in 2024. France ranks second (16%), followed by Germany (14%). In France, crémants—from regions like Alsace, Bourgogne, and Loire—are experiencing strong growth, even as Champagne faces a slowdown amid inflation and shifting consumer habits.
“Five years ago, most of my production was red wine,” explains Bordeaux winemaker Dominique Furlan, “but now crémant is vital. Consumers love it, and it provides stable income for producers.” Sales of crémant hit a record 114 million bottles in 2024, up 6% year-on-year and 35% compared to 2020, according to the FNPEC.
Changing tastes and new markets
Producers now aim to move upmarket, targeting the €9–15 price range abandoned by champagne in supermarkets, and to expand exports to the UK and US. “Sparkling wines have a broad appeal, especially among young adults,” notes Richard Halstead from IWSR. “They’re festive, not everyday drinks, so they resist the general slowdown in alcohol consumption.”
However, Champagne’s volumes are shrinking, hit by economic pressures and rising prices. “Some major houses raised prices sharply, and not everyone can afford them anymore,” Halstead adds. Despite this, overall export values continue to grow.
In early October, the Champagne Growers Union (SGV) voiced concern over weakening demand and rising protectionism, while defending the wine’s exceptional standards. “We won’t cut prices,” said SGV president Maxime Toubart. “Champagne remains the best quality-to-price ratio — it’s still the king of celebration.”