REIMS: France’s coronavirus crisis has sparked a fierce battle in its hallowed champagne industry over this season’s harvest, with producers and growers at loggerheads over how much bubbly should be put into bottles.
The goal is to limit the risks from poor harvests and drastic price swings that could put many players out of business. With the price per kilo expected to remain relatively strong this year at roughly €6.50, the stakes are high. And they say over one billion bottles are currently waiting in champagne cellars, representing several years of potential sales.
“Growers are demanding a yield level that covers 2020 shipments while ensuring survival for vineyards,” Toubart said.