The 2021 harvest has begun in all Italian regions.
Quality
Because of a hot summer, but above all with an almost total absence of rain, the general quality is excellent everywhere, with an average alcohol content higher than normal, due to a higher sugar content.
Quantity
Therefore, due to the drought, there is a general drop of around 10% to 20% everywhere compared to last year.
The must yield is also poor, averaging around 70%.
We must not forget the effects of the April frosts, which affected several regions of Italy in different ways.
Harvesting
Harvesting of early grapes (Pinot Grigio and Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Moscato) is currently underway.
In a few days, harvesting will begin on Glera in Veneto (the Prosecco grape) and Trebbiano in Emilia-Romagna, Abruzzo and Puglia.
As for red grapes, the harvest of Sangiovese has begun in Puglia.
Prices
We notice a significant increase in grape prices almost everywhere, driven decisively by two regions: Veneto, because of Prosecco, and Puglia because of Primitivo.
Moscato is also very much requested and the prices of the new must have almost doubled compared to last year.
Conclusion
We are therefore facing a harvest that will be rather poor, below expectations, a bit like what is happening in Spain too.Only a good day of continuous rain could perhaps help to increase a little the volume of grapes not yet harvested.
Otherwise, Italy would have a poor harvest, similar to the 2017 vintage.
I will keep you updated with the next report.
I remain available for any further information or detail.
Best regards
Carlo Miravalle – Miravalle 1926