Deutsches Weininstitut: Especially early harvest expected
25.07.2018
After a warm spring and the exceptionally sunny midsummer, experts are expecting a particularly early harvest this year. The ripening of the vines is more than three weeks ahead of the long-term average and thus more advanced than in the last very warm years of 2003, 2007 or 2011.
All 13 regions - from Saale-Unstrut to Baden - report an early ripening of the grapes. It can therefore be assumed that the harvest for the new wine, Federweiss, for example in Rheinhessen or the Palatinate, will start as early as the beginning of August (video).
The main reason for this was the warmest April since the beginning of the weather records, which led to a two weeks premature flowering. High temperatures and a long period of sunshine in summer then accelerated further ripening.
The persistent drought has not yet affected the older vines. With their roots up to twelve metres deep, they still reach water reserves in the soil; only younger plants need to be partially watered.
Start of the main harvest at the end of August
The grapes' very satisfactory hanging and state of health currently give reason to hope for a good vintage in 2018. However, much can still happen before the start of the main harvest at the end of August. Until then, the winegrowers want a mix of sun and rain - without storm or hail - and a nice late summer for the harvest.
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