On October 13, winemakers in Rioja completed the 2024 harvest, yielding 275.6m kilograms of grapes—a 28% decrease from the 381m kilograms harvested in 2023, according to the Consejo Regulador DOCa Rioja.
Heavy rains in late September forced an accelerated and early harvest, marking the shortest harvest season of the century. Despite the challenges, a relatively cool summer ensured good phenolic ripeness, resulting in grapes of satisfactory quality. The Consejo attributed this success to the dedication and precision of individual growers. Pablo Franco, Technical Director of the Consejo Regulador, praised the "heroic efforts" of Rioja’s producers during a tumultuous autumn.
The 275.6m kilograms harvest comprised 86% red wine grapes (236.4m kilograms) and 14% white wine grapes (39.1m kilograms). Regional contributions were as follows: Rioja Alta accounted for 44% (121.9m kilograms), Rioja Alavesa for 24% (66.7m kilograms), and Rioja Oriental for 32% (86.8m kilograms).
“This year, the details will be crucial for crafting the best wines,” said Pablo Franco, urging producers to leverage the distinctive traits of each site and variety.
