If you’re wondering what minimum ABV a drink needs to be legally called wine, the short answer is 8.5% ABV.
Let’s break it down clearly.
What Is ABV?
ABV (Alcohol by Volume) is the percentage of alcohol in a drink.
Most wines sit between 11% and 14% ABV.
Minimum ABV for wine in the EU
From the EU wine law:
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Standard minimum: 8.5% ABV
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In some cooler regions: 7% ABV
Wine must also be made from grapes and obtained through alcoholic fermentation.
If a product falls below these levels, it may not legally qualify as wine.
What About 0% “wine”?
Alcohol-free wines start as real wine, then the alcohol is removed.
Legally, they are usually labelled as:
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“De-alcoholised wine”
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“Alcohol-free wine”
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“Wine-based drink”
Strictly speaking, once alcohol is removed, it may no longer meet the full legal definition of wine.
Why is there a minimum?
Alcohol isn’t just about strength. It:
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contributes to body and texture
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reflects grape ripeness and origin
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helps preserve the wine
Without sufficient alcohol, the product may not be stable, balanced, or reflect its place of origin.
Quick Summary
In Europe, a wine generally needs at least 8.5% ABV (sometimes 7% in cooler regions) to be legally considered wine.
Last thought
However, the recent authorisation of certain PGIs (such as Val de Loire in 2025) at 6% ABV illustrates how the regulatory framework is adapting to the increasing consumer demand for lower-alcohol wines.
