2019 Harvest Report: Lombardy

LOMDARDY

Harvest in Italy is always one of the most exhilarating and exciting times of the year and fortunately, 2019 is providing much to be enthusiastic about. Overall, quantity will be down from 2018’s record-breaking numbers, though still within the normal range – around 46 million hectoliters. Nevertheless, Italy should be the highest producer in the world again this year.

Lombardy had a dry and not particular cold winter was followed by a warm spring – which was promptly cut off in May with lots of rain and cool temperatures. This stressed the vines in the early phases, leaving the vines somewhat water-logged and causing uneven budding, flower dropping, millerandage and smaller clusters. Summer was mostly warm, but there were also some destructive hailstorms. Fruit set was irregular and late. Some of the more sensitive vines had to fight off rot. Quantity for the vintage will be much lower than the average – down about 25-30%. Overall, the quality will be good, with some areas of excellence.

Laura Gatti in the vineyard

LAURA GATTI of FERGHETTINA

The 2019 season started out with precocious warm temperatures in late February. So, the growth cycle began very early. Everything suddenly slowed in May thanks to nonstop rain and low temperatures. Flowering was negatively affected and production is down 40% over 2018. But June and July were nice, not too hot, allowing us to get to harvest without any problems. Harvest began a bit late with respect to recent years. The must makes us think this will be a great vintage with excellent acidity and a clear personality from each of the different parcels.