I am in Europe expecting a second wave of the virus. After months of affected by social distancing, the virus is spreading faster and mutating. The measures around the world change over time counting on the stage of spreading. For instance, it can be a low risk then people are allowed to get together in small groups using a mask. As a result of the uncertainty, we will expect a different buying consumption behaviour. There is no doubt that the wine sector is affected too by less tourism getting to the vineyards and wineries.
The world is right now wainting presidential elections within the United States. The influence of politics to manage the spread of the virus can support the Horeca and especially the wine sector for key countries such as the United Kingdom, the United States, Duitsland, or Brazil. For example: closing the doors of the whole Horeca while the most virus spreading is between large groups, is in my opinion not appropriate. Every government should manage Horeca correctly.
I suppose you’re also thinking that subjects like global climate change, circular economy, and sustainability are in the past. The European Union (EU) is fighting against the destruction of our environment. I don’t believe an equivalent in South America, for instance in Santiago of Chile: the smog everywhere the town or mountains of trash isn’t the proper sign to the planet. Also, Brazil is burning the Amazone. In Argentina, poverty and inequality make it difficult for investments in protecting the environment.
In Australia and New Zealand, the story is different. First, they have kept in control of de virus, and second, their production methods have been pro-planet a long time ago. I see a bright wine sector in those countries, especially local consumption and development within the export markets. However, Australia has a problem with the import of wine in China, my opinion is that they will survive. South Africa is in my eyes a mystery. I do know they’re powerful in biodiversity, but it does not help tourism the high scale of criminality.
Is The Netherlands an example for Europe? I’m living in the Netherlands! The changes are dramatic in the wine sector. Expensive restaurants closed their doors, and wine tastings are not any longer safe. The whole wine trade is still. In terms of selling possibilities and also in terms of work and trade development. I am only waiting for ProWein next year, to see who remains in the trade.
The dairy and pig production sector are under struggling because as I say, the government is fighting against nitrogen pollution and CO2 emissions. Obviously, the idea is to import those products rather than producing them locally. There is also a trend for a vegan lifestyle and low alcohol consumption. Even if organic food features a high cost, it is still in the trend. However, average consumers are not interested in the benefits for nature and prefer buying food at the lowest prices.
Imagine that King Willem Alexander had an excellent idea about getting to Greece, while the Prime Minister says: “better go anywhere for the autumn vacation.” The King has to return urgently from Greece after many people start a wave of criticism against his behavior. I’m also in shock, probably being so rich makes him feel like an exception. If you have’got nothing to lose, the grade of egoism will determine your attitude toward rules. What does exactly mean having so much money to expend while around you is misery and frustration?
The Christmas feeling: I remember a dinner with a candle and Champagne, seeing a concert on television. Others, remember meeting some friends and dancing. Christmas 2020 will be strange. The simple fact of being healthy should be enough to open your favorite sparkling wine while sharing via WhatsApp some pictures! I keep optimistic, in 2021 we will have a vaccine and better protocols for medication. In perspective, 2021 seems to be filled with new ideas where only excellent wine brands survive the shift toward modern commercialization.
