Variations in French Wine Production Highlight Contrasts Among Vineyards

11 Sep, 2023

Variations in French Wine Production Highlight Contrasts Among Vineyards

French wine production is anticipated to decline by 2% this year, showcasing significant disparities among various regions. While certain vineyards have been severely affected by fungal diseases, others have thrived due to favorable weather conditions, as reported by the French farm ministry.

The total wine production in France is projected to reach nearly 45 million hectolitres this year, falling within the initial range of 44 million to 47 million estimated last month. This output is slightly above the average of the past five harvests, as stated by the ministry on Friday.

However, the situation among different vineyards is quite diverse. Bordeaux and the southwest have been grappling with mildew attacks, while Languedoc and Roussillon have been affected by drought, impacting their harvest potential, according to the ministry.

On the contrary, some regions have experienced more favorable conditions, despite the presence of botrytis fungus towards the end of the campaign. Specifically, the Bordeaux region is expected to witness a 9% decline in wine output compared to last year and a 17% drop below the five-year average. In the SouthWest, the decrease is projected at 6% and 18%, respectively.

In Champagne, favorable weather conditions have resulted in undamaged clusters reaching a record weight this year, leading to a production potential that is 24% above the average.

Recent hot weather has expedited the grape harvest across most producing regions, according to the ministry.

To provide context, it's important to note that a hectolitre is equivalent to 100 liters or approximately 133 standard wine bottles.