Douro wine region begins grape harvest amid climate shifts

The grape harvest has begun in Portugal’s Douro region, a period traditionally marked by significant agricultural activity and tourism. Due to the effects of climate change, specifically more frequent periods of intense heat, the maturation of grapes has accelerated, causing the harvest to start earlier than in previous years.

Despite the earlier start, wine production in the Douro is expected to increase. Recent estimates from the Instituto da Vinha e do Vinho (IVV) suggest a 25% increase compared to the previous season, with a projected final balance of 1.4 million hectoliters.

In other parts of the country, such as the Algarve, heat has also anticipated the start of the harvest, while erratic weather patterns involving alternating periods of rain and intense heat are reportedly impacting various agricultural sectors.