Germany raises alcohol tax 20% on sparkling wine, spirits and alcopops

The German government announced a 20% increase in excise tax on selected alcoholic beverages, effective next year. The higher levy will apply to sparkling wine, spirits, liqueur wines and alcopops, while beer and wine are exempt.

The change is presented as a health‑protective measure and is expected to generate roughly €400 million in additional revenue. Industry analysts warn that the higher base price could push consumers toward untaxed categories, affecting brewers, winemakers, retailers and importers.

Critics argue the health rationale is secondary to fiscal goals. As one press comment put it, “Ab dem nächsten Jahr wird Schaumwein deutlich teurer… insgesamt soll die Steuer um 20 Prozent steigen.” The tax rise may spur price‑sensitive substitution and compress profit margins across the sector.