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In Champagne, They're Harvesting Earlier Than Ever
Newser • • world
Key Points:
- The Champagne grape harvest in France began on August 12, marking the earliest start ever recorded due to record heat and drought accelerating ripening and reducing acidity.
- Some growers were permitted to start harvesting as early as August 6, with winemakers like Vincent Finot acting quickly to preserve grape quality amid rapid acidity loss.
- Over the past 50 years, harvest dates in France have shifted about three weeks earlier, with traditional late September and October harvests now starting in August, according to experts and veteran winemakers.
- Grape yields have declined due to frost, heat, and drought, forcing producers to rely on reserve stocks to maintain supply.
- The Champagne region may need to adopt new grape varieties and cultivation methods to maintain its signature wine balance, even as similar climatic conditions benefit sparkling wine production in southern England.
