The 2025 harvest has begun, and it promises to be an exceptional year for grape quality. A moist winter provided vital water reserves for the vines, while a reasonably warm spring ensured consistent development. Production is also increasing, up 8% from 2024, with the harvest predicted to reach 47.4 million hectoliters, confirming Italy's top position. It is followed in the global rankings by two European competitors: France (37.4 million hectoliters) and Spain (36.8 million hectoliters). Wine exports remain high. This harvest has seen an increase in wine and must output in the South, with Abruzzo and Molise up 25%, Puglia up 17%, Sicily up 20%, and Basilicata up 40%. The only region with dropping estimations is Tuscany (-13%), whereas figures in the North are increasing: Piedmont 5%, Valle d'Aosta 8%, Trentino-Alto Adige 9%, Veneto 2%, and Friuli Venezia Giulia 10%. “We are working on policies to exempt wine from U.S. tariffs", said Agriculture Minister Francesco Lollobrigida.