Low harvests for different reasons

A trio of reports from key wine regions reveal that 2025 has been a tough year for production worldwide, from drought and heat in Spain to abandonment and high costs in California, and rain-soaked vineyards in Germany. Yet, quality may still surprise.

Germany is forecasting its smallest harvest since 2010, down 7% on last year and 16% below the decade average, as rain and small berries hit yields in Rheinhessen, Pfalz, Baden and Württemberg. Despite this, growers report excellent ripeness and aromatic wines.

In Spain’s Castilla-La Mancha, relentless August heat cut production by as much as 30%, compounding years of low profitability and drought. Authorities stress a renewed focus on quality and fair pricing.

Meanwhile in California, vineyards have been abandoned or removed as soaring costs outpace returns. Tens of thousands of acres lie fallow, prompting new laws to tackle pest-ridden, unmanaged farms threatening nearby healthy vines.