Which of the following has NOT contributed to the loss of vineyard land in the EU?

• A. increased subsidies for new vineyard plantings
• B. vine pull schemes
• C. EU restrictions on planting new vineyards
• D. conversion of vineyard land to other uses

Answer: (A)

Policy measures that shrink vineyard land explain why the correct option is the one that does not contribute to land loss. When growers are paid to pull vines through vine pull schemes, the number of hectares under vine drops directly. EU restrictions on planting limit where and how new vineyards can be established, which can slow or halt expansion and, over time, allow land to be repurposed for non-vine uses. Converting vineyard land to other uses further reduces the area devoted to vines. In contrast, increased subsidies to plant new vineyards would encourage additional planting and help maintain or grow vineyard area, so they do not contribute to the loss.