The grape pomace and lees represent a fundamental element for the RANDI Group, serving as the raw material for the production of various products such as tartaric acid, ethyl alcohol, grape seed oil, bio-pellet, and other sustainable solutions. The progress of the harvest is therefore crucial to ensure an adequate supply of high-quality raw materials. As the 2024 harvest comes to a close, it is essential to understand how climatic conditions and weather phenomena have influenced the grape harvest in Italy and Europe, and consequently, the availability of by-products.
General Progress of the 2024 Harvest in Italy
The 2024 harvest in Italy has been marked by some peculiarities due to extreme weather conditions. After a period characterized by very high temperatures and prolonged droughts, the grape harvest began earlier than usual, especially in southern regions, where some areas started as early as July. This early start was driven by higher-than-average spring temperatures, which led to early vine flowering. The situation is more critical in Sicily, where the prolonged drought has led to a reduction in the harvest, with estimates suggesting up to 70% less yield compared to the average of recent years.
Despite the climatic challenges, the outlook for grape quality is positive. Regions like Tuscany have experienced an excellent harvest, thanks also to the water reserves accumulated during the winter and spring, which helped the vines better withstand the summer heat. Overall, while northern Italy faced storms and hail, the south experienced a dry season but with healthy grapes almost everywhere.
2024 Harvest Situation in Emilia-Romagna
In Emilia-Romagna, the 2024 harvest started early, in line with the national trend, due to an exceptionally hot and dry summer. This region, known for its production of high-quality wines, was affected by extreme weather conditions, with high temperatures bringing the grape harvest forward to the beginning of August. However, despite these factors, the outlook is positive in terms of quantity, with an estimated 10% increase over last year. Some challenges remain on the phytosanitary front, but the region is hopeful to overcome them and maintain a high grape quality.
The 2024 Harvest in Europe
Elsewhere in Europe, the 2024 harvest has also been influenced by particular weather conditions. In France, the harvest started later than in recent years due to heavy spring rains, followed by a hot summer that accelerated the grape ripening process. In Spain, wine regions faced similar conditions, with periods of intense heat and drought affecting the quantity of the harvest, though without significantly compromising grape quality.
The European climate situation has highlighted the growing challenges that winemakers must face in the context of climate change, making planning and managing the harvest even more crucial to ensure the quality and quantity of the grapes collected.
