Where in the World is the Grape Harvest?
Springtime in the United States means it’s time to harvest the grapes in Australia. 2009 has not only been a challenge to the world economy, it has also been a challenge to the vineyards of Australia. With record-breaking drought conditions throughout the continent, vintners have had to be creative to maintain the quality and reputation of Australian wine. Temperatures have soared above 113 degrees Fahrenheit (45 degrees Celsius); the hottest in over 100 years. On a positive note, the unprecedented heat wave, resulting in an 11% reduction in the Australian national harvest could reduce the surplus of Australian wines currently in the marketplace. Australian Winegrape Crush and Price Report, released in December 2008, described the drastic oversupply, which is growing much more rapidly than demand; the report predicts that in 2013 Australian grapes will exceed demand by 7%. Australia, the world’s fourth largest wine exporter had a 31% increase in exports to a record $1.5 billion dollars
