The French government’s agricultural ministry has released an updated forecast for the 2023 harvest, predicting a significant decline in production across the country. This decline is attributed to a combination of factors, including unusually wet weather, late frosts, and a lack of sunshine. These factors have all contributed to a reduction in grape yields, leading to a smaller harvest overall.

Agreste is a French agricultural research institute. Agreste’s findings suggest that the 2023 harvest in France will be significantly lower than the previous year’s harvest. The coulure, or berry drop, is a common problem in vineyards, but the severity of this year’s coulure is unprecedented. The coulure is caused by a combination of factors, including the weather conditions during flowering, the age of the vines, and the variety of the grape. The millerandage, or grape size variation, is also a consequence of the weather conditions during flowering.

The French government has been implementing a plan to reduce the production of wine in France, aiming to curb the overproduction and price fluctuations. The government’s plan, which is being implemented in stages, involves a gradual reduction in the number of hectares of vines planted each year. This reduction is expected to lead to a decrease in the overall production of wine in France. The government’s plan is facing criticism from some winemakers, who argue that it is too drastic and will lead to job losses and economic hardship.