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The wine production in Italy is expected to be between 41 and 42 million hectoliters. This is based on an initial estimate by the Italian Farmers' Association Coldiretti in collaboration with the research center "Centro Studi Divulga." This corresponds to about eight percent more than last year. The year 2023 has gone down in history as a "catastrophic" year for wine production in Italy. The harvest this year is also significantly below the average of recent years, but slightly above the amount predicted in France (39.3 million hl).
The grape harvest presents a divided picture of Italy. The northern part of the country was hit by heavy rainfall and hailstorms in spring and early summer. Consequently, there were significant problems with vine diseases. The harvest in the northern regions began with a delay of ten to 15 days compared to last year and is expected to conclude in mid to late October with the late-ripening grapes (Cabernet, Nebbiolo, Raboso) and in higher altitudes (Valtellina).
In central and southern Italy, however, the harvest will continue until early November. According to Coldiretti, the situation there has improved slightly compared to last year. In 2023, the harvest was lower than usual in the south due to severe downy mildew infestation. This year, southern Italy suffered from severe drought. Drought and record heat led to a very early start to the harvest. The first grapes were already harvested in Sicily in the second half of July.
(ru / Winenews)