Crimea's wine sector contracted under pressure from fuel, shipping and energy problems during the January-August period of 2026. According to data from Russia's Federal Service for Alcohol Market Regulation, still wine production in the region fell by 24.7% compared with the same period last year, while sparkling wine production declined by 38%.
Production also declined across Russia. During the same period, the country's still wine production fell by about 15%, while sparkling wine production decreased by 14.5%. Crimea remains an important regional supplier, providing 20% of the still wine sold in Russia and 10% of its sparkling wine.
Attacks and power cuts disrupted supplies
Industry experts said that an increase in attacks targeting Crimea this summer worsened fuel shortages and disrupted maritime transport between the region and mainland Russia.
Deliveries of glass bottles, corks and packaging materials to Crimea also became more expensive and risky. Rotating power cuts imposed after attacks on energy infrastructure further affected the operations of wineries.
Tourism decline affected sales
The decline in the number of tourists traveling to Crimea because of deadly attacks in the region also reduced the number of consumers buying wine during their holidays.
Despite the decline in production, producers expect a recovery in the coming months, supported by a grape harvest that is expected to be strong this year. The harvest is projected to reach its best level in the past 10 years.