The 2008 vintage has started in Germany. The first grapes, intended for the production of white must, have been harvested in Dexheim in the Rheinhessen region.

As reported by the German Wine Institute (Deutsches Wein-Institut - DWI), the first grapes of varieties such as Siegerrebe and Ortega were picked on Monday. DWI spokesperson Ernst Büscher said that the vines "are one to two weeks ahead of the long-term average in their development". The grapes are generally healthy and in good condition, setting the pace for a successful vintage. Naturally, lots of things can still go wrong in the weeks to come... (WF)