The 2025 harvest season is now underway across Europe, concluding in France, Italy, and Greece, where producers have approached this season with careful land management and a strong commitment to high-quality standards.
The Charming Taste of Europe campaign, co-funded by the European Union and led by the Late Harvest Wines of Bordeaux, Consorzio Tutela Vini d'Abruzzo, and the Association of Imathia's Agricultural Cooperatives (ASIAC), provides an overview of the 2025 harvest, a crucial period marking the start of a new production cycle.
The 2025 Greek kiwi harvest, completed this fall, faced lower yields due to spring frosts and water shortages; however, expanded cultivation areas and improved farming techniques helped growers limit the overall decline in production to about 30%. Harvesting began in late August with early varieties such as Summer Kiwi and Green Light, followed by Tsechelidis in September and the main variety, Hayward, in mid-October. In recent years, Greece has also seen a growing interest in yellow (Soreli) and red kiwi varieties, reflecting both innovation and diversification within the sector. Greek kiwis have become one of the country's most successful exports, known for their vibrant flavor, natural sweetness, and sustainable cultivation methods. Their growing popularity reinforces Greece's role as a leading producer of premium-quality fruit in Europe. Broadly speaking, global demand for Greek kiwis continues to grow, driving expansion into new international markets and encouraging increased investment in promotional and marketing initiatives.
Bordeaux, France -- The 2025 harvest began earlier than usual, following an exceptionally hot August with temperatures nearing 104°F. Despite these extremes, the year has proven remarkably favorable for Late Harvest Botrytis wines, marking it as one of the most promising vintages in recent memory.
Thanks to misty mornings and bright, sunny afternoons, conditions were perfect for the noble rot (Botrytis cinerea) to develop with precision. The result: grapes of exceptional concentration and aromatic complexity, harvested from late September onward. Yields are modest, but the quality is nothing short of outstanding.
These Late Harvest wines stand out for their balance, freshness, and richness. They can be enjoyed young for their vibrant fruit and energy, or after aging for their depth and elegance -- and even serve as a sophisticated apéritif.
Overall, the 2025 Bordeaux harvest remains stable and full of promise. Once again, Bordeaux confirms its reputation as a benchmark for exceptional Late Harvest wines, while traditional festivities such as the Ban des Vendanges continue to celebrate the region's heritage, community, and enduring winemaking spirit.
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