This year, winemakers are starting the main grape harvest much earlier than usual. 

Early Harvest and Healthy Grapes

This year, the grapes have ripened exceptionally quickly, leading to an early start to the harvest in many regions – beginning in the first week of September. In the Rheingau, for example, the harvest is already about three weeks ahead of the long-term average.

A quick, promising vintage

The German Wine Institute (DWI) expects a fast harvest, as most grape varieties are ripening at the same time. Currently, the grapes are developing similarly to the exceptional vintages of 2003 and 2018. Even with high sugar levels, the grapes still retain appealing acidity, creating perfect conditions for fresh, fruity, and aromatic white wines.

Early, colourful red grapes

Red wine lovers have reason to be excited as well. Local red grape varieties are already showing deep colour and are ripening earlier than usual.

Low rainfall in August has concentrated the sugars in the berries, which means the first pressings of juice have sometimes been lower than expected – but this can result in richer, more flavourful wines.

Winemakers are now hoping for warm days and cool nights in the coming days. This weather will help develop the grapes’ aromas while keeping them healthy for a full and flavourful ripening.