---
In the renowned wine region of Burgundy, France, producers are grappling with the impact of tariffs imposed by former President Donald Trump, which threaten to significantly reduce their sales in the lucrative United States market. With the US being the largest export destination for French wines, these tariffs are creating trepidation among vineyard owners.
Élodie Bonet, a vineyard worker in Morey-Saint-Denis, explains the delicate process of managing vine growth while facing uncertainties stemming from US trade policies. Meanwhile, Cécile Tremblay, a local winemaker, reveals that nearly 10% of her production is exported to the US, a significant market that has become precarious due to changing tariffs. Initially threatened with a staggering 200% increase on imports, the tariff was lowered to 10%, with potential hikes looming based on ongoing trade negotiations.
François Labet, president of the Burgundy Wine Board, speaks candidly about the crucial role the US market plays, noting that it accounts for approximately a quarter of the region's wine exports. Despite recent increases in the volume and value of Burgundy wine sales, Labet acknowledges the chilling effect that heightened tariffs could impose on future growth.
French wines, particularly those crafted from the pinot noir grape, have garnered a high reputation abroad. But Labet warns of potential backlash if tariffs rise again, comparing it to previous years when a 25% duty led to a drastic drop in exports. While winemakers fear a return to stagnation, industry leaders like Jerome Bauer from the French National Wines and Spirits Confederation urge for the removal of tariffs entirely.
Interestingly, American winemakers do not celebrate the tariffs either. Rex Stoltz of Napa Valley Vintners expresses concern that such trade disputes dilute the international nature of the wine industry, which relies heavily on global resources. Current duties on Canadian products have also strained exports, leaving shelves devoid of American wines. Stoltz’s sentiment reflects a broader desire for competition based on equal grounds, free from the constraints of trade wars.
As discussions unfold in the coming weeks, Burgundy’s winemakers remain on edge, eager for trade policies that will safeguard their storied tradition and economic future.
In the renowned wine region of Burgundy, France, producers are grappling with the impact of tariffs imposed by former President Donald Trump, which threaten to significantly reduce their sales in the lucrative United States market. With the US being the largest export destination for French wines, these tariffs are creating trepidation among vineyard owners.
Élodie Bonet, a vineyard worker in Morey-Saint-Denis, explains the delicate process of managing vine growth while facing uncertainties stemming from US trade policies. Meanwhile, Cécile Tremblay, a local winemaker, reveals that nearly 10% of her production is exported to the US, a significant market that has become precarious due to changing tariffs. Initially threatened with a staggering 200% increase on imports, the tariff was lowered to 10%, with potential hikes looming based on ongoing trade negotiations.
François Labet, president of the Burgundy Wine Board, speaks candidly about the crucial role the US market plays, noting that it accounts for approximately a quarter of the region's wine exports. Despite recent increases in the volume and value of Burgundy wine sales, Labet acknowledges the chilling effect that heightened tariffs could impose on future growth.
French wines, particularly those crafted from the pinot noir grape, have garnered a high reputation abroad. But Labet warns of potential backlash if tariffs rise again, comparing it to previous years when a 25% duty led to a drastic drop in exports. While winemakers fear a return to stagnation, industry leaders like Jerome Bauer from the French National Wines and Spirits Confederation urge for the removal of tariffs entirely.
Interestingly, American winemakers do not celebrate the tariffs either. Rex Stoltz of Napa Valley Vintners expresses concern that such trade disputes dilute the international nature of the wine industry, which relies heavily on global resources. Current duties on Canadian products have also strained exports, leaving shelves devoid of American wines. Stoltz’s sentiment reflects a broader desire for competition based on equal grounds, free from the constraints of trade wars.
As discussions unfold in the coming weeks, Burgundy’s winemakers remain on edge, eager for trade policies that will safeguard their storied tradition and economic future.
