Global Supply of California Wine Continues to Flow

California wineries are continuing to ship wines through global supply chains to major export markets across Europe, the UK, Asia and North America despite the challenging circumstances of the COVID-19 crisis. Across export markets, retail demand for wine has remained constant or increased, and California wineries are well-supplied to meet the demand.

According to winery reports, shipping, warehousing and freight-forwarding partners are continuing to send shipments although some companies are starting to report minor delays. Given the dynamic situation, many companies are encouraging customers to place orders now to take advantage of the current stability. Ports remain open for commercial shipping, although constraints in available equipment, specifically containers, has been a factor.

Following a statewide order issued on Thursday, March 19, for all Californians to “stay home”, Wine Institute confirmed with government officials that the new order allows winery and vineyard operations to continue under the Food and Agriculture Sector critical infrastructure plan. Winery operations and production, including shipping and order processing, have remained open while winery hospitality and tasting rooms are temporarily closed. More information on how California’s statewide order affects wineries and vineyards is available here.