The weather this summer has been unpredictable, but for Luxembourg’s winemakers, the timing of the rain has been just right.
After years of summer drought and late frosts, the recent heavy rainfall has come as a blessing, says Josy Gloden, President of Domaines Vinsmoselle. “The first Pinot Noir grapes are already getting soft. They’re ripening into wine. You can see the colour change”, he notes with satisfaction.
The steady rain over the past few weeks has provided much-needed water at a crucial stage of development. “This year has been very good for us so far. No late frost like in previous years, consistent rainfall, and no severe weather or hail, which caused major problems in other wine regions. We’ve been spared.”
Still, private winemaker Ben Schram remains cautious. A single hailstorm could still do serious damage. But experience has taught him to roll with the punches. “Especially for the Pinot varieties, which ripen early, it would be ideal if it stopped raining now. They don’t need more water before harvest. Riesling could still use a bit, but otherwise, sunshine would be perfect.”
This year, unlike previous summers, water isn’t an issue. But no one in the Moselle doubts that the climate is changing. And many are adapting their vineyards accordingly.
Four years ago Schram planted Merlot, a grape typically associated with southern wine regions. “It’s a beautiful variety”, he says. “This will be our first harvest. We’re aiming for a pure red Merlot. Summers are getting warmer here too, so it makes sense to start experimenting with red wine.”
The cooperative is taking a similar approach. “Alongside Pinot Noir, we already grow Zweigelt and Merlot”, says Josy Gloden. “We need those for blending red cuvées, and we’re already using them.”
Given the current heat, an early harvest is looking likely – possibly as soon as 10 September.
If severe weather holds off, the outlook remains promising. For now, all is green in the Moselle.
