A Delphi analysis of Italian stakeholders' perspectives on partial dealcoholization of PDO and PGI wines: navigating innovation and territorial identity

Abstract

The growing relevance of No- and Low-alcohol (NoLo) wines, largely produced through post-fermentation dealcoholization techniques, is reshaping the wine sector, driven by evolving consumer preferences and climate-related increases in grape sugar content. Although European Union (EU) legislation permits partial dealcoholization for Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) and Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) wines, national approaches differ, with Italy maintaining a cautious stance. This study explores wine experts’ perspectives on introducing partial dealcoholization into Italian PDO and PGI specifications through a two-round Delphi survey. It examines levels of acceptance, key conditions, and perceived barriers to its inclusion in official production regulations. Results show broad acceptance for PGI wines, while PDO wines, especially higher-tier categories, face strong resistance due to concerns about authenticity, sensory identity, and cultural heritage. Experts favor naturally low-alcohol wines achieved through viticultural and oenological practices, but recognize the limits imposed by climate change and grape composition. A flexible, integrated approach is therefore suggested, using partial dealcoholization as a complementary tool when necessary. Findings underline the importance of governance, protection Consortia, and transparent labeling, framing partial dealcoholization as a “bounded innovation” whose legitimacy depends on preserving territorial identity, regulatory coherence, and consumer trust. This exploratory study maps stakeholder positions and offers insights for future research and policy development on integrating NoLo wines into geographical indication systems.