Harvest, agricultural associations optimistic

The 2018 grape harvest has started under the sign of optimism as it was hailed the return to normality, even before it began. The agricultural associations, Confagricoltura and CIA, which represents the major Italian wine companies, have forecast an increase in crops in virtually every region, and production reaching 48 million hectoliters. Downy mildew and the “esca” disease, due to rains, have created problems in some areas of Italy, but the quality of the grapes appears excellent, while acidity and alcohol content are in the right parameters.