Anticipated bountiful 2025 Vintage Season for Wine Harvest
In the face of economic challenges and decreasing wine demand, the wine industry in Baden-Württemberg is receiving much-needed support. Minister Peter Hauk has initiated an immediate wine program, effective since January 2025, to provide relief for producers and create stable future conditions.
The program combines EU, federal, and state measures, with key supports including increased subsidies for manual viticulture. The Handarbeitsweinbau support program now offers 5,000 euros per hectare, up from 3,000 euros. Additionally, subsidies for pheromone promotion in viticulture have been doubled from 100 euros per hectare to 200 euros per hectare.
Environmentally friendly pest control is a priority, and the program doubles funding for pheromone-based pest control. This is a significant step towards sustainable wine production in Baden-Württemberg.
The program also supports vineyards on slopes with over 30% inclination, with the FAKT II program offering 1,000 euros per hectare and year, and small structures, from 2026. This initiative aims to preserve the unique character of the region's vineyards.
Wine tourism projects are being promoted to provide additional income for winegrowers and promote wine sales. The model project Future Wine Baden is an example of these efforts.
Minister Hauk expressed great hopes for a very good vintage in 2025 due to the good work of winemakers and favourable weather conditions. However, he also acknowledged potential challenges, such as increased import tariffs of 15 percent for wine into the USA, which could exacerbate price pressure on the German wine market.
Major European exporters like Italy, Spain, and France are expected to sell more wine on the German market. To counter this, the program also focuses on stronger marketing efforts, working closely with regional winegrowers' associations to develop a comprehensive concept.
From 2026, the existing crop insurance program for fruit and wine, established in 2020, will include hail damage. This extension will provide producers with greater security and peace of mind.
For more information, the Ministry of Food, Rural Affairs and Consumer Protection can be contacted via email or a contact form. The program is part of a broader commitment to support the region's winemakers, combining origin, craftsmanship, and innovation to produce characteristic, lively wines.
