French winemakers in Champagne and Ardeche are launching grape harvests up to three weeks early after summer heatwaves altered picking schedules across regions. In Chauzon, in Ardeche, harvesting began roughly ten days ahead of schedule.
Cyril Jaquin, president of Vignerons Ardechois in Ruoms, said the early start is exceptional and was previously seen in 2022 and 2003 during the first heatwave. Jaquin noted that in 2003, harvesting began even earlier on August 3. He explained that while early picking does not impact wine quality, cellars must now be ready by early August rather than September as was standard 20 years ago.
Staffing and Housing Challenges
Bringing workers to vineyards early has created major logistical problems. In Champagne, 150 grape pickers are expected a week earlier than planned, at a time when many are not yet available.
Sebastien Rigobert, a winegrower and president of the wine cooperative of Bouzy in Marne, explained that students may be on holiday and employed pickers might have booked leave at the wrong time. Rigobert added that finding last-minute housing during peak summer is difficult because holiday cottages and vacation centers used for harvesters are still occupied by tourists.
Early Hours and Staff Reassignments
Vineyard managers have also rushed to prepare presses and workrooms. Rigobert predicted that picking could begin around 6:00 am or 6:30 am if daylight permits to avoid extreme mid-August heat.
In Pyrenees-Orientales, early morning harvesting began in July before seasonal pickers arrived. Jean-Marc Lafage, a local winegrower, said employees from other departments stepped in to pick grapes, including reception staff member Lisa, sports manager Marion, and workers from IT, marketing, and sales. Lafage noted that some employees were recalled from leave to complete the work.
Climate change could eventually cause historic grape varieties to disappear from regions that become too hot for them. Over the past 20 years, French grape harvests have moved forward by an average of about 15 days.
