Early grape harvest promises top quality

The healthy grapes have ripened exceptionally quickly in recent weeks, which has led to an early start to the harvest in the first week of September in many regions. In the Rheingau, for example, this year's harvest start is around 3 weeks ahead of the long-term average.

Fast grape harvest expected

The German Wine Institute (DWI) is also expecting a quick harvest, as most grape varieties are currently ripening at the same time. The development status of the grapes is currently largely at the level of the exceptional 2003 and 2018 vintages. Fortunately, the grapes still have very good fruit acid content this year despite high must weights. Coupled with the first-class health of the grapes, these are the best conditions for fresh, fruity and aromatic white wines.

Early ripening also for red grape varieties

Red wine lovers can also look forward to top quality from local cultivation. The grapes of the red grape varieties are already very well coloured and ripen comparatively early.

The high concentrations of fructose in the berries are also due to the low rainfall in many places in August. As a result, the must yields after the first pressings were often lower than expected.

The winegrowers hope for warm days and cool nights in the coming days, as this will promote the further development of the aromas. If it remains largely dry, the grapes can complete their ripening in a healthy state.