The 2023 vintage saw challenging climatic conditions in many Italian regions, with downy mildew and hail as the primary challenges. Despite these difficulties, the quality of the grapes harvested is generally good, although quantities are often reduced, with average declines of around 30%.
North-West
Piedmont was hit by adverse weather conditions, with scattered hailstorms, especially in the Langhe and Roero. Flavescence dorée posed a significant problem in this region, particularly in the Langhe, forcing producers to eliminate many infected vines. The summer was characterized by extreme heat that accelerated grape ripening. The harvest started slightly late, but the quality of the grapes is generally good, although the quantity is reduced by 10-15% compared to previous years. Nebbiolo grapes have shown excellent potential for Barolo and Barbaresco wines, despite the challenges posed by hail.
North-East
Veneto faced one of the most complex vintages in recent years, with heavy spring rains that fueled the spread of downy mildew. Hail hit Valpolicella and Soave hard, causing significant losses. Friuli Venezia Giulia and Trentino-Alto Adige had more stable climatic conditions, but downy mildew also affected these areas, albeit less severely. In Veneto, the harvest was marked by a reduction in the quantity of grapes harvested, but the quality remains good, especially for varieties destined for Amarone. In Friuli and Trentino-Alto Adige, the quality of the grapes is high, with slightly lower average production.
**
Central Italy
In Tuscany, the year was characterized by abundant spring rains, followed by a hot and dry summer. Downy mildew was particularly problematic, especially for those practicing organic viticulture. In the Marche, hail caused damage in some areas, while Lazio faced a relatively favorable climatic year, despite some issues related to fungal diseases. The harvest began later than usual, with good quality grapes but reduced quantities. In particular, Chianti Classico and Brunello di Montalcino are shaping up to be of positive quality, although with lower volumes. The Marche region saw a reduction in production, but with stable quality for Verdicchio.
**
South and Islands
Southern Italy experienced more favorable climatic conditions compared to the Center-North, with warm but not excessive summer conditions. In Campania, downy mildew was a challenge, while Puglia had a more regular year, with few diseases and favorable summer weather. Basilicata suffered from some heavy rains, but these did not significantly compromise the quality of the grapes. In Campania, the harvested grapes are of good quality, although some areas experienced losses due to downy mildew. Puglia saw a regular harvest, with good quality and quantity of grapes, especially for Primitivo and Negroamaro. In Sicily, the climate was characterized by a rainy spring followed by a scorching summer. Hail hit some areas, but the damage was contained. Etna experienced a difficult year, with delayed grape maturation. The harvest produced good quality grapes, with a slight drop in quantity. Etna wines show promise, but quantities are below average.
