Two severe hailstorms within just one week (Tuesday, June 18, 2024, and again on Tuesday, June 25, 2024) have devastated vineyards in the significant northern Spanish wine region of El Bierzo. The regions of Valtuille de Abajo and Parandones are especially hard hit, with more than 90% of the potential harvest destroyed. The damage to the vines is so extensive that even the next harvest season is at risk, as the vines cannot be pruned. Some hailstones were as large as golf balls, breaking off shoots from the vines.
The regulatory authority for Bierzo's designation of origin and local winemakers are describing the situation as catastrophic, with unprecedented damage. Immediate actions are necessary to protect the plants from fungal diseases. In total, about 500 to 600 ha (1,200 to 1,500 ac) of vineyards are affected, more than a third of the total area. The harvest, which had initially promising prospects, usually begins in Bierzo in early September.
The neighboring Valdeorras region was also hit by the hailstorms, bringing the total affected area in both regions to approximately 850 ha/2,100 ac is 20% of the total vineyard area of Bierzo and Valdeorras. MS
