In its latest market report, Ciatti notes that wine production in all Northern Hemisphere countries are lighter than average. Italy and Spain are down 9%, OIV estimates, which is pocket change compared to France’s 27% drop since 2020. California’s production, Ciatti estimates, will be “average.”
“These short crops north of the equator have ensured this year’s global wine production will be — according to OIV — ‘extremely low’ at 247.1-253.3 million hectoliters.” Production had been projected to be around 2652 million, itself 7% less than the 20-year average.
Add to the woes: The shipping mess. Transport costs have more than doubled — and that’s when vintners can book shipping at all. Blame port backlogs and a shortage of shipping containers.