In Germany, the main wine harvest for 2008 has already begun, or is due to start in the next few days. So far there are no dramatic developments, the first volume estimates are assuming an average-sized harvest.

As reported by the German Wine Institute (DWI), the period of vegetation and ripening development has so far proceeded continuously and favourably. In Baden, Pfalz and in Rheinhessen, the first grapes of early-ripening varieties such as Rivaner, Portugieser and Pinot Madeleine have been picked already. According to the Wine Institute, based on the current situation, wine producers are expecting good wine quality this year. The state of development of grapes as well as their aroma development are very promising, says DWI press chief Ernst Büscher.

According to an initial estimate by the Wine Institute, the liekly total volume of the harvest is set at around ten million hectolitres, which is approximately equal to the average brought in in recent years. (WF/press release DWI)