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A current survey in the six wine growing regions conducted by the Wine Growing Committee of the Chamber of Agriculture of Rhineland-Palatinate has unanimously revealed a significant reduction in harvest estimates.
"While initial yield forecasts after the vine blossom were still based on above-average harvest volumes, expectations are currently being revised downwards significantly due to the high temperatures and low rainfall from the Ahr to the Palatinate," explained Chamber President Norbert Schindler. "Even in older, deep-rooted vineyards, the available water supplies are obviously becoming scarcer, which is also evident in small berries. The excellent state of health of the vineyards and the far advanced ripeness of the grapes is pleasing."
Parallels were drawn to the 2003 vintage, which is remembered for its high must weights and low yields.
Current evaluations of the Chamber of Agriculture in the form of a comparison of harvest reports over several years with marketing data from the official quality wine inspection show the development of wine stocks in the cellars. A comparison of the current situation with previous years shows a massive decline in the barrel wine stocks still in storage. Schindler comments: "The cellars are emptier than they have been for a long time. In this respect, nature's extremely early harvest this year helps to ensure that the market is supplied with the new vintage."
(uka / Photo: German Wine Institute)