‘Wine Is a Gift From God’: Pope Francis Urges Vintners to Consider ‘Moral Responsibilities’ at Private Vatican Meeting

Pope Francis presides over a mass to celebrate the word of the Lord, in St. Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican, Sunday, Jan. 21, 2024. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini)

On Monday afternoon, over 100 Italian wine producers poured into the Vatican Apostolic Palace for a private meeting with Pope Francis. Brought to town by the Veronafiere-Vinitaly trade show, industry veterans took their seats as the Pope delivered a message of unity and social responsibility.

“Wine, the land, farming skills and entrepreneurial activity are gifts from God,” remarked the Pope in his opening address.

“The Creator has entrusted all this to us, to our sensitivity and our honesty, so that we can turn them, as the Scriptures say, into a true source of joy for the heart of Man and of every man, not just those who have more opportunities,” he continued.

Italy — responsible for 17% of international wine production — is the second-largest exporter in the world behind France. With annual sales hovering around $6-8 billion USD, industry leaders hold massive influence over the domestic economy.

“Given the number of companies involved, the quality of your products and impact in terms of employment, your sector is unquestionably a significant reality on the Italian and international wine scene,” said the Pope.

“It is therefore reassuring to see you come together to consider the ethical aspects and moral responsibilities all this entails.”

A combination of adverse weather conditions, supply chain trends and changing tastes have hit the Italian wine market over the past few years. Output fell 12% in 2023, leading to the first decline in wine sales since the COVID-19 pandemic began in 2020.

Frederic Bricolo, president of Veronafiere, reiterated the importance of the Pope’s message amidst trying times.

“We pay homage to wine as a gift from God, a symbol of tradition and a sustainable economic system in social and environmental terms. We emphasize our commitment with Vinitaly to preserve and enhance the winemaking heritage of our community to ensure that wine continues to be an aspect of social cohesion and open dialogue.”

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