The 2022 harvest produced 532,000 tonnes of grapes: compared to 370,000 tonnes last year (last year’s 19% drop on the prior year was due to cooler spring weather and late frosts).
The larger vintage is a relief for an industry which has seen demand exceed supply, particularly when it comes to its dominant export market. This is against a backdrop of COVID-19 restrictions, increased production costs and labour shortages.
“Going into vintage, wineries urgently needed a larger harvest as strong demand and smaller than expected crops in recent years had led to a significant shortage of New Zealand wine,” said Philip Gregan, CEO of New Zealand Winegrowers.
“That shortage has caused total New Zealand wine sales to fall 14% from the peak achieved in January 2021, even as wineries supported sales by drawing on stocks which are now at rock-bottom levels.”
In the domestic market, the same shortage has led to sales of New Zealand wine falling to their lowest level since 2004.
“There is no doubt we urgently needed an improved harvest this year after cool weather and frosts impacted Vintage 2021,” added Gregan. “The main challenge this year was COVID-19, which greatly complicated harvest logistics with Omicron rampant throughout New Zealand just as harvest began. This created additional pressure at a time many producers were already under pressure due to labour shortages.”
This year’s harvest of 532,000 tonnes of grapes saw virtually every region and all principal varieties contributing to the production turnaround from 2021.
“The improved harvest is good news for the industry and customers,” continued Gregan. “Producers will be able to rebuild seriously depleted stocks and sales, while customers should get to see retail shelves restocked once more. However, rising costs and supply chain disruption remain significant concerns to winemakers as they look to replenish markets.”
“We know demand for New Zealand wine is strong as the distinctive flavours, quality, and sustainability of our wines resonate resoundingly with wine enthusiasts around the world. Vintage 2022 is another step towards meeting that demand.”