British wine producers were able to harvest almost 10 tons of grapes per hectare on average in 2023 - 50% more than the previous record. Production of 20 to 22 million bottles is expected - nearly three times as many as were sold in 2022.
The International Organisation of Vine & Wine (OIV) estimate that 2023 wine production will be 7% lower than the below-average volume of 2022, and it says, the lowest output since 1961. Does this tally with what we at Ciatti are hearing, and what should we make of it?
The wine production forecasts from the OIV indicate a significant decrease, falling by 7% to 244 mhl, marking a historic dip. Yet, this reduction might help to stabilize the international market.
The 2023 wine harvest across Europe amounts to about 150m hectolitres, approximately 5.5% below the five-year average. Countries in Eastern Europe, especially those hit by severe weather, are reporting significant losses.
October has arrived but the Northern Hemisphere harvest picture still lacks clarity due to a patchy performance in Europe and a lag in California’s growing season by up to four weeks. What have we been hearing?
The German Wine Institute (DWI) forecasts a harvest yield of 8.8m hectolitres in Germany, which is close to an average crop. The quality is expected to be good.
The EU Commission reports a wine harvest 6% lower than in 2022, while the French Ministry of Agriculture's third harvest forecast expects levels above its five-year average.
The CIVB has declared a good 2023 vintage, despite the harvest beginning early, in mid-August. White and red grape varieties have benefited from the climatic and weather conditions, although the yield remains uncertain.
Tradition demands the participation of individuals who are dedicated to preserving it. For the Trentino winegrowers’ cooperative Mezzacorona, this involves safeguarding the indigenous grape varieties Teroldego and Marzemino, showcasing their qualities both as monovarietal wines and in blends.
