Some 63.5% of companies operating in the Italian wine sector expect sales to fall this year, compared to 2019, with more than two-fifths (41.2%) expecting sales to drop by 10% or more, according to a Mediobanca study.

The study found that there is slightly less pessimism among wine cooperatives, generally more linked to large-scale distribution, and sparkling wine producers. The former expects to be less affected by the drop in consumption in restaurants and public places in general, while the latter’s sales are largely seasonal.