Murray Valley Winegrowers has acknowledged the findings of Wine Australia’s Australian Wine Production, Sales and Inventory Report 2025, which confirms the challenging market conditions facing growers.
The newly released report shows wine production exceeded sales in 2024–25, with the industry producing around 75,000 tonnes more grapes than the market could absorb.
National wine stocks rose by five per cent, leaving excess inventory equivalent to approximately 375,000 tonnes of grapes.
Wine Australia warned that “grape prices are unlikely to improve in the next few years.”
Domestic wine sales fell three per cent and remain on a long-term decline.
While exports to China have recovered following tariff removal, figures remain less than half their 2017–18 peak.
The report said global wine consumption continued to fall and was forecast to decline further over the next five years.
White wine stocks jumped 19 per cent, reflecting an overcorrection as growers shifted away from oversupplied red varieties.
Wine Australia suggests vintages must fall below 1.5 million tonnes nationally to clear excess supply.
MVW believes 1.2 million tonnes is more sustainable, noting some current sales were not profitable.
MVW said the findings confirmed structural oversupply requiring significant industry adjustment.
Growers without contracts face continued price pressure, and recovery could take years.
Chair of Murray Valley Winegrowers Chris Dent said growers had shown remarkable resilience but needed accurate information to make sound business decisions.
“Wine Australia’s report removes any doubt about the seriousness of industry oversupply,” Mr Dent said.
He said while this was difficult news, understanding the reality allowed growers to plan accordingly, rather than making decisions based on false hope.
“Growers without confirmed contracts for the 2026 vintage should prepare for minimal or no sales opportunities.
“The figures are clear – wine stocks are at elevated levels while sales continue to decline.”
