The 2024 harvest marks a significant recovery in terms of quantity, regaining the volumes lost in 2023 and reaching about 41 million hectoliters of wine produced, a 7% increase compared to last year. However, the year was marked by extreme and unpredictable weather conditions, with variable effects depending on the region. While some areas in Central and Northern Italy saw a return to more stable production conditions, others faced drought, intense rains, and frosts that greatly challenged winemakers.
North-East
In Veneto, the season was demanding, with difficult weather conditions. Rain, which arrived only at the end of summer, improved the state of the grapes for white wines and Prosecco, which achieved excellent quality. The harvest began later, recalling the timing of past decades. Thanks to a careful selection of grapes, fresh and aromatic wines are expected, in line with the region’s quality standards.
In Trentino-Alto Adige, the season was among the most challenging. After a mild winter and a very rainy spring, downy mildew caused significant losses, especially affecting more sensitive varieties like Lagrein. The summer was hot and dry, yet without excessive water stress due to accumulated water reserves. The harvest ended with production down by 30% from 2023 but with good quality for whites and high potential for Pinot Noir.
North-West
In Piedmont, the 2024 season was marked by abundant rainfall—a rare occurrence in the region—which helped improve vine health after years of drought. These conditions allowed for favorable results in both quantity and quality, aided by careful grape selection. Nebbiolo grapes, in particular, show great potential, though September rains added complexity to the harvest. Thanks to rigorous vineyard management, producers achieved high-quality yields, making 2024 a noteworthy vintage.
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Central Italy
In Tuscany, the season showed promise thanks to a rainy winter and spring that favored vine development. The hot, dry summer did not cause significant stress, with water retained in the soil allowing plants to reach full maturation. Despite the September floods that damaged some areas in Bolgheri, quality is high, with wines displaying intense aromas and good acidity.
In Le Marche, the climate was highly variable, with intense heat waves in the summer followed by heavy rainfall in September and October. Grape ripening was inconsistent, necessitating a long, selective harvest. The final grape quality is good, with wines leaning towards finesse and lightness over power.
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South and Islands
In Campania, the harvest was a breath of fresh air after the devastating 2023 season. Despite intense heat in the summer months, autumn rains favored a more balanced phenolic maturation, resulting in overall good quality and slightly lower alcohol levels than the average.
In Sicily, particularly on Mount Etna, the 2024 season saw warm but moderate summer conditions, with occasional rains that helped vines recover from water stress. These conditions allowed for optimal ripening of Etna’s native varieties, with the harvest completed about two weeks earlier than in previous years. The grapes harvested were healthy and of excellent quality, fueling high expectations for wines produced in this standout vintage.
