2024 Harvest Report Italy (Sicily)

​The 2024 grape harvest in Sicily commenced earlier than usual due to elevated temperatures and drought conditions. Settesoli, a prominent Sicilian cooperative, began harvesting Pinot Grigio in mid-July, approximately 12 days ahead of previous years. This advancement was attributed to limited rainfall during autumn and winter, coupled with an early onset of summer in May. Despite these challenges, the grapes were reported to be in excellent health, with expectations of wines exhibiting good minerality and acidity. ​

At Donnafugata's Contessa Entellina estate, the harvest also started earlier, with white Chardonnay grapes picked in July. The estate implemented adaptive measures such as taller vine growth to provide shade and irrigation to counteract the heat. Although the yield was smaller, the quality of the grapes was emphasized. ​

In the Vittoria estate, Frappato vines budded earlier in March, followed by Nero d’Avola. Supplementary irrigation was employed to maintain vine balance, leading to an estimated slightly lower yield but excellent quality. The harvest was anticipated to begin earlier than usual. ​Donnafugata

On Mount Etna's northern slopes, higher temperatures resulted in a mild winter and steady spring, with rainfall aligning with seasonal norms. Vine growth was favorable, and grapes were expected to reach veraison in early August. The harvest was projected to start around mid-September with grapes for rosé wine, followed by Carricante, and concluding with Nerello Mascalese and Nerello Cappuccio for red wines in October. ​Donnafugata

Overall, the 2024 Sicilian grape harvest was marked by early onset due to climatic conditions, with producers implementing various strategies to ensure grape quality despite reduced yields.