Summer has arrived in the wine-producing countries of the Southern Hemisphere, with attention now turning to the 2025 vintage. In Argentina and South Africa, spring frosts were largely avoided, while Australia experienced some damage. Additionally, November rainfall in regions like Riverland and Sunraysia has heightened pressure from fungal diseases.
Australian Chardonnay grape prices for the 2025 vintage are already expected to rise by about 10% compared to the previous year. Meanwhile, prices for Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc continue to decline. According to Ciatti, the still-available 2023 vintage has now fallen to the price of generic New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc.