Over the past 10 years, the Champagne region has experienced a pattern of harvest seasons beginning earlier than the typical mid-September date. The earliest harvest since record keeping began occurred in 2003, when the first grapes were picked on August 18th. While global warming may be a factor for the rise in temperatures, the Champenois have noticed no negative consequences on the quality of their wines. In fact, to the contrary, the past decade has produced a number of vintage years, and 2007 is poised to be yet another exceptional year.

Increase in Yield of Grapes Harvested

The 2007 harvest is also unique because of an increase in the base yield that has been approved by France's appellation governing body, the Institut National des Appellations d'Origine (INAO). Each year, the organization establishes a base yield which may not be exceeded by producers. Depending on the size and quality of the vintage, the INAO has the power to increase or decrease the base yield. During very good years, a quality reserve is set aside for future production. The 2007 harvest has been set at a minimum of 12,400 kg/hectare, with a maximum-allowed yield of 15,500 kg/hectare. The years 2002, 2004 and 2005 were all years during which grapes were also set aside in reserve.

About the Office of Champagne, USA

Office of Champagne, USA is the official U.S. representative of the Comite Interprofessionnel du Vin de Champagne (CIVC), a trade association which represents the grape growers and houses of Champagne, France. The Office works to educate U.S. consumers about the uniqueness of the wines of Champagne and expand their understanding of the need to protect the Champagne name.