As the summer is in full swing, let’s take a quick look at how the grape harvest is going in Italy, which has already been underway for a few weeks in some areas.
Sicily and Southern Italy
The first bunches of Pinot grigio - an early variety - have been cut off on the 18th of July. In Sicily, Grillo and Chardonnay grapes are being harvested, and even in some parts of Puglia the 2024 harvest of Primitivo has already begun earlier than usual due to warm spring and summer weather.
Central Italy:
This year Tuscany had to face some challenges, including spring frosts, however, the Sangiovese grapes are showing good concentration. Harvest dates are expected to fall within the usual mid-September to early October window. In Chianti and Montalcino areas, the vintners are cautiously optimistic about the current vintage.
North Italy:
In Piedmont, the Nebbiolo grapes are being closely monitored. The region experienced mixed weather conditions, but recent favorable conditions have raised hopes for a quality harvest, although potentially smaller in quantity.
On the Prosecco hills of Veneto, Glera grapes are near readiness. Producers are optimistic, as the expectations speak about a good balance of acidity and sugar for the region’s famous sparkling wines. The 2024 vintage in Western Veneto has faced some challenges. While the region saw a mild winter, unpredictable weather marked the spring, including hailstorms that affected certain areas. These conditions have raised concerns about potential grape damage and uneven ripening. High temperatures and sporadic drought conditions have characterized the summer months, potentially stressing the vines and affecting grape quality. The producers are monitoring the situation closely, particularly in regions like Valpolicella and Soave, where the balance between acidity and ripeness is crucial.
In summary, while the 2024 vintage in these regions has faced significant challenges, the situation is still evolving, and winemakers are working diligently to navigate these obstacles. The final quality of the vintage will depend on the ongoing weather conditions and the resilience of the vineyards.