The closures and lockdown caused by the Covid-19 crisis have not just affected the restaurant sector, but also their suppliers, such as Luxembourg's vintners.
Josy Gloden, president of the Vinsmoselles association, told RTL the first months of the pandemic had been particularly difficult for the Grand Duchy's winegrowers, but the situation had improved somewhat in the wake of the first wave.
With the onset of the summer months, restaurants and terraces reopened and people could meet with friends and family, seeing wine sales jump in spite of the growing virus risk.
However, summer 2020 was far from ideal, as the usual events and festivities were cancelled or rescheduled. As a result, sales of crémant, or sparkling wine, fell sharply - even more so than wine sales. Gloden said it was difficult, but not fatal for the sector yet.
While sales have stagnated for the most part, online sales have leapt up among private clients, said Gloden. However, the increase will not compensate for the losses caused by the pandemic, particularly in the Horesca sector.
The annual Grevenmacher wine festival was completely cancelled in 2020, and will take place virtually in 2021. This will be the first occasion for many to sample the new wines from last season, while 23 winemakers, including Domaines Vinsmoselle, will participate.
The vintners will speak about their products in video format, while customers will have the opportunity to order online. The traditional wine and Riesling queens, usually appointed for the festival, will have to put their official appearances on hold once more.
The Vinsmoselle association is optimistic that reopening Luxembourg's terraces will have a positive effect on their sales.
