Wine production is about to show a remarkable overtaking in 2016. Italy will probably overcome France as for the quantity of wine manufactured in a single year. Compared to 2015, wine production in France is expected to drop by about 10%: 42,9 hectoliters millions, well below 48,5 millions expected in Italy by Ismea. That’s what emerges from latest Coldiretti research, based on French Agricultural Ministry statistical office “Agreste”. Italy will probably be in the top position this year, researchers says. France could instead be overtaken even by Spain, whose wine production is estimated about 45 hectoliters millions.
OVERTAKING FACTORS – French wine production debacle – Coldiretti says – is due to 2016 spring frost in some wine-growing zones (Champagne, Bourgogne and Loire valley), combined with wind and drought in France’s Mediterranean area and hail in Charente, Bourgogne-Beaujolais, Languedoc-Roussillon.
GRAPE HARVEST IN ITALY – In Italy, this year’s vintage began on August 12 in Franciacorta. A week later in comparison to 2015, when it had been conditional on drought and a heat wave: the earliest grape harvest in the last 10 years. In 2016, much will depend on September weather conditions. However, a mild winter and an early germination seem to bring forward a very good vintage.
EXPORT SKYROCKETING – Without further complications, Made in Italy wine production will be composed for more than 40% by 332 Doc wine and 73 Docg one, for 30% by 118 Igt Italian wine and for 30% by table wine. Italy’s 650.000 vineyards hectares and 200.000 wine companies large production is a good premise for export. In the first 4 months of 2016, wine export increased by 2%. In addition, half Italian wine sales turnover this year will come from export.