La Designation of Origin Catalunya The 2017 harvest closes with a reduction in production of 9 million kilos. They represent 17% less than last year. Well, the 2016 harvest closed with 53.426.923 kg. This year it closes with 44.474.325 kg.
The reasons for this decline were meteorological. Due to the frost episode experienced well into spring, especially in the extreme north and south and in the innermost areas of Catalunya. Also by some local hailstorm, along with the drought.
Still, qualitatively speaking, the maturation it has been good. They have some medium-high alcoholic degrees and well balanced with the acidity. The incidence of plagues and diseases has been practically nonexistent because of the low frequency.
As well as the little amount of rainfall. In short, the 2017 vintage in DO Catalonia is characterized by an excellent raw material that has to allow the obtaining of some high quality wines.
Production is reduced, but quality will be good in DO Catalunya
To analyze the reasons for relegation of production it is necessary to go back to last year. An intense drought compromised the floral induction of what should be the bunches of this year, reducing them in number. Then the month of March was rainy enough. This allowed a good sprouting and a good vegetative development of the strains.
On the other hand, the plant has had to dedicate efforts to its own recovery before dedicating itself to producing and fattening the fruits. Reason why the load of grapes has been less to last year. It was more generous before even though the grape was small afterwards.
Another feature of this vintage it has been the advance over previous years. The high temperatures of summer, especially the heat wave of June, caused an advance of the harvest. Between 10 and 15 days compared to 2016.
Regarding the varieties in DO Catalonia, the reduction of the harvest has been especially important in the varieties of red grape. Overall, they fell by 25,5%, particularly the majority varieties of Cabernet Sauvignon, Melot and Tempranillo (around -30%).
Also red Grenache (-13,4%) and Syrah (-23,7%). The decrease in white has been more moderate (-6,12%). It has been accused by the Macabeo variety (-26,28%). Finally, it was partially offset by the increase in Parellada (+ 16,9%), Xarel lo (+ 23%) and Muscat of Alexandria (+ 5,2%).
