According to the Ministry of Agriculture, France’s 2024 wine harvest yield (as of 1st November) is now estimated at 36.9m hl, approaching the historically low level of 2017, when production reached 36.78m hl. This year’s yield represents a 17% drop from the five-year average and a 23% decline compared to 2023. The ministry attributes the reduced production to adverse weather conditions affecting all wine-growing regions from flowering through harvest.
Many vineyards experienced cool, wet weather during flowering, leading to blossom drop and berry shatter, with the resulting berries being unusually small. Additional challenges included spring frost, as well as mildew and hail during the summer.
Compared to 2023, every wine region recorded a decline in production in 2024. In Champagne, for instance, production is expected to be down by 46%. Burgundy and Beaujolais are estimated to see a combined decrease of 38%, while the Alsace region’s yield is projected to be 13% lower. In the Jura, a drastic 68% decline is expected. The Loire Valley is also forecasted to have a 29% drop in output, and Bordeaux has recorded a further 12% reduction compared to the already low yield of 2023.
