The Comité Champagne has announced that the available harvest yield –  the maximum amount that can be made into wine for selling – in 2025 will be set at 9000 kg/ha.

It is the third year in a row that yields have been reduced and is the lowest yield level since 2020 (8000kg/ha).

The decision is a result of an uncertain global economic and geopolitical climate, with Comité Champagne exercising caution through a process of destocking.

Comité Champagne co-president Maxime Toubart said: “This decision reflects a clear-headed, united and responsible Champagne region, capable of acting with restraint in an evolving world while maintaining unwavering confidence in its fundamental strengths. It demonstrates a spirit of cohesion in the face of challenges and a constant ability to look ahead with ambition.”

Co-president David Chatillon added: “With its renowned expertise, unique global image and ongoing commitment to sustainable viticulture, Champagne continues to uphold the values that have made it reputable. This optimism is based on its proven ability to adapt, innovate and build the future with ambition, without ever losing sight of today’s realities.”

Total Champagne shipments in 2024 were 271.4 million bottles, down 9.2% from 2023. Exports were down 10.8% on 2023 at 153.2 million bottles.

US President Donald Trump has threatened 30% tariffs on EU exports. The US is the biggest market for champagne with 10% of champagne exports by volume and 15% by value.

Toubart said: “Champagne is a true barometer of consumer mood. And this is no time for celebration, with inflation,
conflicts around the world, economic uncertainty and a political wait-and-see attitude in some of Champagne’s biggest markets, such as France and the United States of America.”

Champagne is expected to produce between 10,000 and 11,000kg/ha during the 2025 harvest, with Louis Roederer cellar master Jean-Baptist Lécaillon describing conditions in the region as “perfect”.

As for what will happen to the excess, much of it will be “banked” for the future. Producers set aside a percentage of their yield from each harvest as insurance for poor years.