Business Daily Tariffs and terroir
May 11, 2025
François Labbé, President of the Burgundy Wine Interprofessional Office, represents 3,500 winemakers in the prestigious Burgundy region. He shares insights on the $400 million wine export to the U.S. and the looming threat of import tariffs. Discussions cover the unique terroir of Burgundian wines, the challenges local vintners face, and how American competitors in Oregon and California view the tariff situation. Labbé also emphasizes the resilience of Burgundy's winemakers amidst market fluctuations and the intricate relationship of the wine trade.
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Old Vines Pruned with Care
- Vineyard employee Elodie Bonnet carefully prunes old Pinot Noir vines to focus energy on quality grape production.
- The vines they work on are 60 years old, contributing to the distinct character of Burgundy wines.
Worries Over US Tariffs
- Burgundy wines face uncertainty under new US tariffs, with producers worried about market impacts.
- Winemakers hesitate to speak openly, fearing they might worsen an already difficult situation.
Tariffs Impact Consumers Not Just Producers
- Tariffs ultimately burden American consumers as importers and producers share the cost.
- Consumer preference drives purchases more than origin; love for a product over nationality prevails.