Changing tastes, climatic conditions, health warnings, economic factors are all creating a perfect storm for the global wine industry.

The origins of wine-making date back to around 9,000 years ago, when it was a drink mostly associated with elite society. Since then, it’s had a long association with major occasions like weddings and funerals, as the beverage of choice. And it has been integral to different forms of worship and spirituality. Up until the twentieth century it was even considered a healthy tipple.

But demand for wine has been steadily declining across the globe. In France, home to some of the world’s most famous brands, the government has now had to step in to support the producers and their vineyards. And there is increasing competition everywhere from both the beer and spirits industry, who are marketing more alcohol-free or low-alcohol options.

So, on The Inquiry this week, we’re asking, Is it last orders for the wine industry?

Contributors:
Jane Anson, author, wine critic, Bordeaux, France
Roderick Phillips, author, Professor of History, Carleton University, Ottawa, Canada
Stefano Castriota, author, Professor of Economics, University of Pisa, Italy
Peter McAtamney, founder of Wine Business Solutions, New South Wales, Australia

Presenter: Charmaine Cozier
Producer: Jill Collins
Researcher: Evie Yabsley
Production management assistant: Liam Morrey
Technical producer: Mark Burrows
Editor: Tom Bigwood

(Photo: A bunch of grapes. Credit: Gabriel Bouys/AFP via Getty Images)