New Zealand 2024 harvest down on last two years

With the New Zealand grape harvest just weeks away, expectations are high for this year’s crop as the warm summer continues in winegrowing regions across the country. However, the early indications are that the 2024 harvest will not be as fruitful as 2023 in terms of yields, which delivered 501,000 tonnes of grapes and exported more than NZ$2 billion of wine. “Commencement of the grape harvest is now just a few weeks away and there is a real sense of anticipation this year. El Niño traditionally delivers lots of warmth and sunshine in our winegrowing regions and it has certainly been the case this season,” said Philip Gregan, CEO of New Zealand Winegrowers. “Since flowering in December, the weather has been close to ideal for grapes. All the reports we are receiving suggest ripening is progressing well and disease pressure is low. With the grapes in excellent condition, it seems we are heading towards another quality New Zealand wine vintage,” continued Gregan. While the quality ...