Italy allows de-alcoholisation

Italy has lifted its long-standing ban on domestic de-alcoholised wine production, paving the way for wineries to process wines at home for the first time. The move promises lower costs, greener logistics, and fresh opportunities in a fast-growing category.

Italian producers are preparing to bring de-alcoholisation in-house following a late-2025 decree expected to be fully implemented by the end of March. Until now, wineries had to ship wines to countries such as Germany and Belgium, adding cost and carbon miles.

The new rules set out different requirements for small and large producers, with all activity conducted under a tax warehouse regime and appropriate licensing. Approved techniques include vacuum evaporation, spinning cone columns and reverse osmosis.

Industry figures say the change reflects rising global demand for low- and no-alcohol options. Producers believe domestic processing will boost competitiveness while reducing environmental impact and expanding consumer choice without threatening traditional wine styles.