German winegrowers are bracing for a smaller harvest in 2024, with forecasts showing a significant drop compared to 2023. According to the Federal Statistical Office (Destatis), the projected harvest volume is approximately 8.26 million hectoliters (hl), representing a 4.9% decline from the 8.69 million hl harvested in 2023. This figure is also 7.3% lower than the six-year average (2018-2023) of 8.91 million hl.
Impact of Rainfall and Extreme Weather
The reduced yield is largely attributed to unfavorable weather, particularly the wet spring, which encouraged the spread of fungal diseases like downy mildew (Peronospora). Other extreme weather events—such as late frosts, hailstorms, strong winds, and heavy rainfall—further impacted grape production.
As in previous years, the majority of the harvest (59.6%) will come from the two largest wine-growing regions: Rheinhessen (2.59 million hl) and Pfalz (2.33 million hl). Baden (1.12 million hl) and Württemberg (0.80 million hl) together account for nearly a quarter (23.3%) of the total output, while the remaining 17.1% will be produced in smaller regions.
Severe Regional Harvest Losses
Many wine regions are experiencing sharp declines in yield compared to 2023. The most significant losses are in Saxony (-73%, or 21,600 hl), Saale-Unstrut (-71.7%, or 34,300 hl), and Ahr (-65.6%, or 27,800 hl). Other areas hit hard include Mosel (-30.7%), Franconia (-29.8%), and Baden (-11.9%).
However, some regions expect higher harvest volumes compared to the previous year. Notable increases are projected for Rheinhessen (+7.1%), Pfalz (+2.0%), and Rheingau (+2.9%).
Lower Yields of Riesling and Pinot Noir
Riesling, Germany’s most widely planted grape, is expected to see a decline of 3.1%, with a projected total of 1.87 million hl—59,400 hl less than in 2023. Müller-Thurgau and Pinot Gris (Grauburgunder), two other key white grape varieties, are also facing substantial declines, with yields expected to drop by 10.4% and 11.7%, respectively.
Red wine production will also be impacted, with Pinot Noir (Spätburgunder) yields forecasted to fall by 14.4% to 798,200 hl. On a more positive note, Dornfelder is expected to see a slight increase, with yields projected to rise by 2.3% to 692,500 hl.
The 2024 harvest highlights the challenges posed by extreme weather, underscoring the ongoing difficulties faced by German winegrowers.
