The vineyards present themselves splendidly

In some cases, the first red grapes are already forming. The ripeness of the grapes is only a few days behind that of the previous year, which was also early.</p <p>No major damage

Except for isolated, localised hailstorms, the vines have been spared any major weather-related damage this year. Fortunately, the record temperatures of up to 39 degrees at the beginning of July hardly caused any sunburn on the grapes.</p <p>Drought causes concern

Winegrowers in many regions, however, are concerned about the lack of rainfall or the often very uneven distribution of rainfall. The resulting drought is particularly stressful for young vineyards whose roots do not yet reach deep into the soil. Older vines on deeper soils usually still find enough water.

According to the current state of development of the vines, the grape harvest for the first spring white is expected to begin in the penultimate week of August. The general start of the harvest for early-ripening grape varieties is currently forecast for the first week of September.

Until then, winegrowers are hoping for sunny, not too hot weather with the occasional heavy downpour.</p