Rhône Valley 2022 harvest: a slow return to normality?

The 2022 harvest in the Rhône Valley was 2% higher than the preceding year, but remained lower than the average of the past five vintages, according to new figures, giving the region hope of a slow return to normality.

Philippe Pellaton, President of Inter Rhône, announced the latest 2022 figures at the Wine Paris Vinexpo Paris trade show which took place in February.

Volumes in 2022 were up on the previous year, with 2.6 million hl of wine produced in the region. However, numbers were down by 3% compared to the average of the last 5 vintages.

The share of red wine remained stable – 76% of the harvest — while white wine gained 2 percentage points and is now in balance with rosé, at 12% each.

International exports decreased compared to 2021, down 3%. However, figures for 2022 remained 3% higher than 2020, suggesting a positive trend upwards, with 2021 a significantly good year for the region. Recovery continues, with export turnover increasing: up 4% vs 2021 and up 22% vs 2020.

International volumes saw a drop in key markets including the US (down 12%), Canada (down 5%) and China (down 20%), but most European markets are on the up. Volumes increased by 7% in Belgium, 25% in Germany, 23% in the Netherlands and 8% in Sweden. In 2023, Inter Rhône has set its sights on new markets including Singapore and South Korea as areas to explore.

Results of a recent Symetris 2022 study Survey of wine merchants show enthusiasm for the Rhône appellations. In terms of offers, the Rhône Valley displays a very good positioning – second of all regions; 98% of wine shops offer a range of Rhône Valley wines.

Earlier this year, Berry Bros & Rudd released its Fine Wine Report 2023, encouraging investors “not to overlook other regions” outside of Burgundy and Bordeaux. The fine wine merchant suggested the Rhône as an alternative region to consider when investing in fine wine. Read more on that here.