© Daniela Jeremijevic – Vignerons Indépendants de France

Rural Development 

Independent Winegrowing plays a central role in the development of rural areas, contributing to the social sustainability of these territories and stimulating their local economies. The European Confederation of Independent Winegrowers (CEVI) emphasises the importance of supporting these key sectors through appropriate policies and constructive dialogue between Member States and Independent Winegrowers.

Winegrowing, a vehicle for social integration

In rural regions, Independent Winegrowing is a motor for social integration. Structured around small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) deeply rooted in the territories, it offers numerous employment opportunities. These jobs, often non-relocatable, play a crucial role in combating rural depopulation by maintaining a stable and growing job market.
To reinforce this impact, it is essential to:

  • Encourage the hiring of seasonal workers: Creating jobs, particularly seasonal ones, helps meet the specific needs of harvest and production periods.
  • Develop training programs: Offering training programs for both seasonal and skilled workers enhances local skills and strengthens the contribution of Independent Winegrowers to social sustainability.
  • Promote economic stability: Supporting winegrowing SMEs allows an harmonious economic development of rural areas, thereby enhancing their dynamism and attractiveness.

© Daniela Jeremijevic – Vignerons Indépendants de France

Wine tourism, an economic driver for wine regions

Wine tourism is a major economic driver for winegrowing regions, attracting each year millions of visitors eager to discover the cultural and scenic treasures of these areas. Winegrowing, deeply rooted in European history and culture, has not only shaped the landscapes but also forged a true “art de vivre” that draws tourists. 

To maximise the impact of wine tourism, it is necessary to: 

  • Improve access to wine tourism areas: Enhance access to wine regions through efficient transport and communication infrastructure. 
  • Support local initiatives: Encourage wine tourism projects that highlight local specificities and the expertise of Independent Winegrowers. 
  • Promote wine tourism offers: Showcase the unique experiences that European wine regions can offer, from cellar tours to wine tastings and cultural events. 

© Daniela Jeremijevic – Vignerons Indépendants de France

Supporting the development of wine tourism

To ensure the social and economic sustainability of wine tourism, the EU must encourage open dialogue between Member States and Independent Winegrowers. This will help develop measures that meet the needs of both visitors and producers while strengthening the promotion of wine tourism.

Priority actions include:

  • Opening promotion aid for wine tourism to Independent Winegrowers’ associations: Recognising their key role in developing communication about wine tourism.
  • Encouraging support mechanisms: Implementing funding programs and policy initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable and inclusive wine tourism.
  • Facilitating access to resources: Providing tools and resources to help Independent Winegrowers attract and welcome tourists while preserving the authenticity and quality of their offerings.

© Daniela Jeremijevic – Vignerons Indépendants de France

Independent Winegrowing and wine tourism are powerful levers for rural development and social sustainability. By supporting these sectors through appropriate European policies and constructive dialogue between Member States and Independent Winegrowers, CEVI is committed to promoting a prosperous, sustainable, and socially integrated winegrowing industry. Strengthening these initiatives is essential to ensure the future of winegrowing regions and to continue making wine tourism a vital economic driver.

Independent Winemakers: Passion for the Vine.

© Daniela Jeremijevic – Vignerons Indépendants de France

The Independent Winegrower, where Terroir becomes Wine