Hungary's Hottest July Sparks Early Grape Harvest Amid Climate Change Concerns

Hungary's winemakers start grape harvest early due to record-breaking July temperatures, impacting white wine production. Climate change is causing rapid heat accumulation, making traditional grape growing challenging. Experts and winemakers discuss potential adaptations, including shifting to red wine varieties and implementing new vineyard strategies to cope with the heat.

Hungary's unprecedented July heatwave has driven winemakers to begin grape harvesting in early August, marking the earliest start in decades.

Climate change is significantly affecting Hungary's winemaking industry, with soaring temperatures potentially rendering the region unsuitable for white wine production, including the celebrated Tokaji. Veteran grape grower Laszlo Kerek, harvesting in Balatonlelle, attributes this early start solely to climate change.

The National Meteorological Service reported that this July was Hungary's hottest since 1901. Climate scientist Peter Szabo from Eotvos Lorand University notes a 25% increase in growing degree days, indicating heat accumulation necessary for crops to mature. Szabo warns that continued increases could make Hungary's climate unsuitable for white wines, urging a switch to more heat-tolerant red wine varieties.

Despite these challenges, winemakers remain optimistic about adapting traditional white wine production through changes such as reducing direct sunlight exposure and planting on east-facing slopes. The Tokaj region's producers express concerns, yet highlight early ripening as a potential buffer against unpredictable autumn weather.

(With inputs from agencies.)