Five Wine Trends to Watch in 2025

Sustainability is no longer a buzzword. It’s an expectation. As climate change impacts vineyards worldwide, wineries are doubling on eco-conscious practices. Organic, biodynamic, and even regenerative farming methods are becoming standard in many top wine regions. Soil health will be a hot topic!

Expect to see more certifications like Demeter (biodynamic), Organic Certified and even B Corp (social and environmental responsibility) featured prominently on bottles. But sustainability goes beyond farming.

Innovations like means of transportation, lighter glass bottles, bag-in-box wines, and refillable containers are reducing carbon footprints.

In 2025, we are expecting to see even small-scale vintners adopting eco-friendly approaches. It’s a win-win: better for the planet, the vintners and often better for the wine itself, with healthier soils yielding more expressive flavours.

Wine lovers are exploring moderation without compromising on flavour. The “mindful drinking” movement has taken off, with low-alcohol and no-alcohol wines becoming a booming category. Advances in technology have improved the quality of alcohol-free wines, allowing them to retain complexity and aromas traditionally associated with their boozy counterparts.

Rather than merely mimicking wine, many brands are creating innovative alternatives designed to stand on their own. Sparkling teas, kombucha, and beverages like NON are leading the way, offering sophisticated, flavourful options for those seeking a refined, alcohol-free experience.

Meanwhile, producers in regions like Germany and Austria are experimenting with naturally lower-alcohol wines, thanks to their cooler climates.

Expect hospitality venues, wine subscriptions and even retailers to curate sections dedicated to low-ABV (alcohol by volume) wines, making them accessible to a wider audience, particularly younger drinkers who prioritise wellness.

Techniques like ageing wines in clay amphorae, an ancient practice dating back thousands of years, are becoming popular again. Similarly, the resurgence of rare indigenous grape varieties, many of which are nearly forgotten, reflects a growing appreciation for heritage and diversity. Consumers are embracing these wines for their authenticity and uniqueness.

At the same time, winemakers face the mounting challenges of climate change, which threatens vineyards worldwide with rising temperatures and unpredictable weather patterns. In order to adapt, wineries are prioritising climate-resilient winemaking to safeguard their craft for future generations.

Producers are exploring grape varieties that naturally thrive in warmer climates, such as Assyrtiko from Greece and Touriga Nacional from Portugal. Alongside varietal exploration, innovative vineyard techniques, such as water conservation strategies, shade management, and regenerative farming, are being implemented to protect the vines and preserve ecosystems.

Meanwhile, cooler regions are emerging as unexpected hotspots for premium wine production. Parts of England, Germany, and Oregon are gaining recognition for their exceptional sparkling wines and cool-climate varietals. These regions are becoming increasingly important as winemakers search for places less affected by extreme heat.

Augmented reality (AR) wine labels, for example, allow drinkers to scan a bottle and learn about the vineyard, tasting notes, or food pairings through interactive videos. Wine apps and digital tasting platforms are also booming, helping consumers discover new bottles based on their preferences while connecting them with wineries worldwide.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is even finding its place in wine production. Some winemakers are using AI-driven tools to monitor vineyard health, predict optimal harvest times, and refine blending techniques, ensuring consistency and quality.

For wine drinkers, this means smarter recommendations and enhanced access to wines they might not have otherwise explored.

In an increasingly competitive market, branding has emerged as a key differentiator, especially for younger wine enthusiasts. According to recent reports, wines with a remarkable story or strong sense of heritage have proven to resonate deeply with millennial drinkers, who are entering the fine wine segment at unprecedented rates.

Storytelling is no longer an afterthought—it’s essential. Wineries that craft compelling narratives around their terroir, winemaking philosophy, or family history are connecting with a generation that values transparency, authenticity, and cultural significance.

Whether it’s a boutique producer reviving indigenous grapes or a storied Champagne house emphasising its sustainable practices, the emotional connection created through branding is driving loyalty and boosting sales.

For millennials and Gen Z, wine has become more than just a beverage, it’s a conversation starter, a symbol of shared values, and an experience.

As we step into 2025, the wine industry is embracing changes with creativity and resilience. From the rise of mindful drinking and climate-resilient winemaking to the growing interest in technology and alternative beverages, something is exciting happening in every corner of the wine world.

For wine lovers, this is a time to explore new regions, flavours, and styles while appreciating the evolving stories behind each bottle. Italian fine wines, in particular, are enjoying enormous interest, capturing attention for their diversity, quality, and timeless appeal.

However, the landscape isn’t without its challenges. Bordeaux continues to face downward trends, with many perceiving it as a region with significant downside risk. Similarly, regions like Burgundy, California, and Australia are being closely watched as they navigate shifting market dynamics, price increases, accessibility and consumer preferences.

Yet, despite these hurdles and the challenging growing season in 2024, wine’s enduring charm remains. Whether you prefer a glass of Grower Champagne, a complex Brunello, or an innovative alcohol-free sparkling beverage, the future of wine in 2025 continues to be promising and full of discovery.