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In Sicily, one of the most difficult harvests in the region's history has begun in recent days. The unusual climatic conditions - from heavy rainfall in May and June to extreme heat in July - have led to forest fires and massive downy mildew infestations in the vineyards. Experts expect significant crop losses of up to 40 percent in some growing areas. However, it is still too early to make precise forecasts at this point. The harvest in Sicily usually lasts about 100 days and ends with the Nerello Mascalese grapes on Etna at the end of October. However, the Assovini Sicilia winegrowers' association is currently very satisfied with the quality of the grapes. In the west of the island, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc grapes have already been harvested, the autochthonous white varieties will follow shortly.
"The special thing about the Sicilian grape harvest is the diversity of the growing areas. It is still premature to make precise estimates about the quantity and quality. Sicilian winegrowers know how to deal with the effects of climate change by focusing on quality rather than quantity. The focus is on increasingly sustainable agriculture and the use of sophisticated agronomic techniques in the vineyard," says Mariangela Cambria, president of Assovini Sicilia.
(ru / source: press release)