Which Italian wines are most at risk on the US market after the US tariffs on all European products announced by the Trump administration take effect on August 1st? Edoardo Freddi, a specialist in the export of Italian wine excellence, provides the answer.
“With the possible increase in US tariffs on European products, a new chapter opens for Italian wine in the United States,” explains the founder of Edoardo Freddi International, the leading Italian export management company for the wine sector. “There’s no need to be alarmed, but it’s reasonable to imagine scenarios in which some appellations—due to their positioning, volumes, or strategic presence in the US market—could be more exposed than others.”
According to estimates from our Edoardo Freddi International Observatory, which maps hundreds of producers, importers, distributors, and wine lovers in Italy and around the world, some of the wines potentially most at risk include some of the most emblematic Italian exports. Prosecco tops the list in terms of risk (according to 46% of respondents), followed by Pinot Grigio (40%). Chianti comes in a solid third (36% of respondents), almost tied with Chianti Classico (35%). Brunello di Montalcino comes in fifth (31%), followed by Barolo (28%) and Barbaresco (26%). Amarone comes in eighth (22%), while Montepulciano d’Abruzzo comes in ninth (19%). Nero d’Avola closes in tenth place, according to 16% of respondents.
US tariffs: Prosecco and Pinot Grigio most exposed among Italian wines
Prosecco and Pinot Grigio are the wines most exposed to US tariffs. But so are Chianti and Chianti Classico, as well as the trio of Barolo, Brunello, and Amarone. But even the more “popular” Montepulciano d’Abruzzo and Nero d’Avola would not be spared.
“These are wines that, due to their commercial success, recognition, and export volumes, represent an important backbone of Italian wine in the US,” explains Edoardo Freddi. “A change in customs duties could impact price dynamics and competitiveness on the shelf.”
“At the same time, this phase invites the entire sector to reflect on new strategies: market diversification, strengthening perceived value, investments in branding and storytelling to consolidate the bond with the American consumer. Italian wine, already accustomed to navigating complex global scenarios, has the tools to face this challenge too. But remaining vigilant is fundamental”, concludes the founder of Edoardo Freddi International, a company that today represents the most important Italian wineries (62), acting as a true “ambassador” of the Italian wine world and managing a 2024 turnover that exceeded 112 million euros, with over 30 million bottles sold mainly in the markets of the United States, Germany, Switzerland, Denmark, Singapore, Japan and Vietnam.
