France thus took over the top spot from Italy, which had been the biggest producer since 2007. Italy's production for this year is an estimated 45.5 million hL, according to OIV figures, says a report in AFP.
"The world economic crisis has not spared the viti-viniculture sector, particularly wine consumption. In 2009, we experienced stagnating production with an overall decrease in demand," said OIV head Federico Castellucci.
The 2009 world viniculture production, at close to 268 million hL, is almost identical to 2008 levels, according to figures from the intergovernmental organisation, which has 43 member states.
India is not yet a member but hopefully will soon join China which is already has an observer status and is keen to join the organisation .
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