Can it be? Our one safe haven during these tumultuous times may be in short supply? How can we run out of “liquid sunshine”, proof that God loves us, our wonderful, wonderful wine?
Scary news from the International Organisation of Vine and Wine! They recently announced that worldwide wine production fell 5 percent in 2016, compared with last year’s levels. That puts the year on par with some of the lowest production levels in 20 years. Oh, the humanity!
The decrease in production has been blamed on climate change, and seems to be widespread, especially in South America. Output in Brazil is down 50%, with Chile down 21% and Argentina off 35%. Even wine’s standard bearer, France, is reporting a 12% decrease.
There are some notable bright spots in this season’s harvest results, however. New Zealand wine production will be up 35% this year, while the U.S. and Australia will both be up 5%. Spain, another major producer, is expected to eke out a 1% increase.
So will we run out of wine? A 5% drop in total wine production is certainly more than a drop in the wine glass, yes, but with the more than ample levels from preceding vintages, we should be able to make it work. Yet another reason to curate a substantial wine collection!
About the Author: John grills a mean steak and is always in the market for another wine fridge. Believes that if a winery has more than 10 employees, it's probably too big. Buys wine faster than he drinks it, but who cares?
