The 2024 grape harvest in Wallonia has been disappointing, with yields a mere 50% of what they were in 2023. A severe night frost on 22 April followed by a summer of heavy rain has devastated vineyards.
Vanessa Wyckmans-Vaxelaire, President of the Vignerons de Wallonie, describes the year as catastrophic, with some harvests down to just 30% of last year’s levels, and a maximum of 50%. By contrast, the 2023 vintage was exceptional in both quality and quantity.
The quality of this year’s grapes is also poor, though results vary depending on vineyard location and grape variety.
Certain vines were spared the April frost, which affected early buds that had started after a mild winter. However, none escaped the summer rains that hindered flower pollination and caused mildew, resulting in sparse and often underdeveloped grape clusters.
Reports from the Winegrowers of Wallonia highlight the issues. Domaine du Chant d’Éole in Hainaut expects a one-third decrease in yield; its neighbour Vignoble des Agaises forecasts a 50% reduction compared to a normal year. Meanwhile, Longuesault in Ere (Tournai) reports a 70% decrease but maintains acceptable quality.
Chant d'Eole wine domain in Quevy-le-Grand, September 2020. Credit: Belga
A positive note comes from Clos des Prébendiers in Liège, which saved 85% of its crop using fires and vapour from the Tihange nuclear plant. However, Bois Marie Hautes Vignes nearby anticipates a 20% yield compared to last year, and Bois des Dames in La Hulpe reports a total loss.
Established Wallonian winemakers may mitigate losses using last year’s exceptional stock, but newcomers face tougher challenges. Some producers are resorting to chaptalisation (adding sugar to grape juice to boost alcohol during fermentation), but this process is strictly regulated.
Others opted for an early harvest to produce sparkling wines, while those who waited for improved weather saw no benefit, according to the Winegrowers of Wallonia.
