High-end vineyard in St-Emilion initiates early grape harvesting process today, breaking preferred commencement record.
=====================================================================
The wine industry in France is gearing up for an eventful 2025 harvest, with a mix of challenges and promising prospects across various regions.
In Bordeaux, the vineyard area has shrunk from 103,000ha in 2023 to 95,000ha in 2024, leading to lower production. This trend is expected to continue in the coming harvest, as the region experiences persistent heat and dryness, much like the 2022 season. Notably, Château de La Rivière has recently been sold to Global Food Investments.
Meanwhile, in the Rhône Valley, the harvest has already begun more than ten days earlier than last year, a testament to the extreme heat that has accelerated grape ripening and concentrated flavours. Growers in the region report promising quality, with small berries, high aromatic concentration, and well-preserved acidity. However, the dry spell has led to smaller expected yields, with minimal precipitation in August.
Across France, some estates are facing the risk of pushing alcohol levels beyond current ones due to the accelerated ripening. This concern is particularly prevalent in regions like Burgundy and Champagne, where the overall harvest is projected to rise by up to 17%. Bordeaux is also set for higher volumes due to the dry, low-disease conditions.
The dry spell has also resulted in less mildew pressure compared to wetter years, contributing to healthier vines overall. In Pomerol, many estates are holding off for expected weekend rains to refresh the grapes, a strategy also employed by the St-Emilion Premier Grand Cru Classé estate, which started harvesting today, August 28, the earliest date in its history.
Elsewhere, Château Cheval Blanc is expected to begin harvesting the first red grapes on September 1. The white grape harvest in the region commenced in mid-August and has largely concluded in most areas.
In a positive note, cooler weather has ensued this week, with some morning rainfall across the region and a forecast for the coming week. This development could help mitigate the risks associated with the dry conditions and ensure a successful conclusion to the 2025 harvest.
The managing director of Château Troplong Mondot described the season as producing concentrated yet fresh wines, a sentiment echoed by the departure of Caroline Frey from French estates to focus on Swiss vineyards. As the harvest progresses, the French wine industry eagerly awaits the fruits of this unique season.
