WINE NEWS /
Increase in Production Expected in 2004
The 2004 grape harvest is expected to yield
about 49 million hectoliters, an 11% increase over that of 2003.
Unfortunately, the projected numbers would be only a partial recovery
from the losses of the last few harvests, which saw Italian wine
production fall to historic minimums. Prior to this, Piemonte enjoyed
legendary vintages from 1996-2001 and Brunello achieved benchmark
vintages in 1997 and 1999, earning rave reviews and ratings of 90+
points for many producers!
The
weather over the last few months has allowed extensive vegetative
growth
in vineyards
throughout
Italy, the worrisome period that often brings harmful frost has
passed without harming the vines, and the generous rains of the
past winter
and spring precluded any problems due to summer droughts. One drawback
to the excellent weather conditions is the unusually pervasive
problem with mildew, but vintners have managed to keep that assailant
under
control.
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