NZ declares small 2019 harvest

New Zealand’s 2019 harvest has been declared “small but stunning” by trade body New Zealand Winegrowers.

A total of 413,000 tonnes were harvested this vintage, smaller than anticipated although quality is apparently “exceptional” across North and South Islands.

This is the third small harvest in a row for the antipodean country which will hamper volume growth.

NZ Winegrowers’ CEO Philip Gregan said: “Smaller vintages in 2017 and 2018 meant wineries had to work to manage product shortages, and many of our members hoped for a larger harvest this year. Another smaller-than-expected vintage will mean more supply and demand tension overall.”

This at least will keep prices keen. The value of exports has grown 4% to NZ$1.78 billion over the last year.

Gregan continued: “We have an international reputation for premium quality and innovation. Every vintage is different, but winemakers are excited about the calibre of wine that will be delivered to the bottle and we are confident 2019 vintage wines will be enjoyed by consumers around the world.”