Here is the news from the world of wine for November 2023 that every winelover should know. Selection and analysis of Sommelier Wine Box.
1. FRANCE
The title of largest wine producer in the world returns to France after 9 years. In 2022, Italy produced 12% fewer hectoliters than last year. The change is attributed to various factors, especially adverse climatic conditions, including early frosts, torrential rains, mould, drought, plant diseases.
2. CHILE
In Chile many producers are abandoning their vineyards due to declining sales. Decreased demand, nationally and internationally, has led to an excess of grapes on the market, forcing many winemakers to make the tough decision to abandon some vineyards. This phenomenon is particularly evident in the central regions of Chile, such as the Central Valley, where there is a decline in profitability and increasing competition in the wine sector. There are many concerns about the future of the Chilean wine sector.
Still in Chile, a label was launched in November from one of the oldest Cabernet Sauvignon vineyards in the world: in the Apalta Valley, a sub-region in the Colchagua region, in central Chile. A truly unique production.
3. US
In the United States, data and forecasts predict an increasing trend in sales and further consolidation of the sector. Growth in demand for wine in the United States is expected in the coming years, with an emphasis on premium and high-end categories. At the same time, the market is expected to undergo a process of consolidation, with mergers and acquisitions among wineries.
4. ITALY
ETNA
The Etna wine region in Sicily is seeking DOCG (Controlled and Guaranteed Designation of Origin) status for its wines. It would be an official recognition of the extreme quality and authenticity of Etna wines.
Esselunga has launched its online wine shop, offering over 1000 wine and spirit labels. You read about it everywhere, for example on Forbes and Intravino .
MOURNING
Michele Chiarlo, a legend for Barbera and Barolo, has died at the age of 87.
PROSECCO
Italy has achieved a victory in its 'prosecco' litigation against Australia. The European Commission has recognized the denomination of controlled origin (DOC) of Prosecco as a protected geographical designation (PGI), establishing that only Italian producers can use the name "prosecco". This prevents those in Australia from using the term for their sparkling wines. A success for the Italian wine industry.
5. PORTUGAL
The Douro Valley, a wine region in Portugal known primarily for its fortified wines such as Port, has experienced a significant increase in the production of dry wines in recent years, challenging the tradition dominated by fortified wines. This transformation reflects changes in consumer tastes and offers new perspectives for the region in the context of the global wine market. Producers are adapting their practices to meet the growing demand for high-quality dry wines.
And then:
2023 VINTAGE FORECAST
An in-depth analysis of the floods that hit various regions of Central Europe can be read on the BBC , with particular attention to the devastating floods in Germany and Belgium. Details of damage, evacuations and rescue efforts are provided.
The International Organization of Vine and Wine (OIV) predicts that wine production worldwide is likely to be around 7% lower in 2023 than in 2022.
The need to address the challenges linked to global warming and intense climate phenomena is clear.
The global decrease in wine production in 2023 has consequences and will lead to the wine market changing. A timely analysis, with the challenges that the sector must face to adapt to these changing conditions, we read on CNN .
WINE AUCTIONS
High-end wine auction theme. The wine market is favorably embracing this purchasing system and online auctions are increasing, but caution is necessary due to the possibility of purchasing bottles that may not meet expectations in terms of investment or quality. According to the reflection offered by Robb Report, it remains necessary to do in-depth research, consult industry experts and rely on serious auction houses to reduce risks.
PITT-JOLIE
The legal dispute between Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie continues regarding the Miraval wine estate. The matter has finally reached court after long disputes over the ownership and management of their wine estate located in France. A Courthouse News article highlights the ex-spouses' differences regarding the future direction of the estate and the profits generated from wine production.
ALTITUDE
The second thematic selection of Sommelier Wine Box, curated by sommelier Andrea Gori, was dedicated to the story of how altitude influences the quality of wine. In November, Oset Babür-Winter wrote about the topic in Food & Wine , delving into how altitude affects temperature, grape ripening and atmospheric pressure, all variables that define the organoleptic characteristics of wine.
