Europe is reported to have witnessed some of the lowest wine harvests this year due to severe weather events and climate changes, according to a report released by the farming union Copa-Cogeca.

As per the figures released by the union, wine production in the EU was 145 million hectoliters (hl), which is reported to be 14% less in comparison to last year’s figures.

Copa and Cogeca Wine Working Party chairman Thierry Coste said: “This year, our vineyards have been badly affected by the impact of climate change and extreme weather events ranging from frost to drought, with the harvest estimated to be around 14% down on last year’s levels.

“This has resulted in a premature harvest across Europe, with many producers carrying out their harvest 2 weeks in advance on average.”

"This year, our vineyards have been badly affected by the impact of climate change and extreme weather events ranging from frost to drought."

According to the report, France has seen a historic low wine production with 37 million hl, which is down by nearly 18% in comparison to previous year’s production levels.

In Italy, the production is estimated to reach 40 million hl, which is down by 26% compared to last year.

Similarly, the estimated wine production in Spain was around 36 million hl, which is 20% down on last year’s levels.

Portugal was the only European country to have experienced a rise of around 10% on last year’s levels.

Coste further added: “The quality of the grape is nevertheless expected to be very good across Europe which should make for an excellent wine. Prices are also likely to rise but this will not be enough to compensate some producers for their losses. Producers need to have a better insurance scheme.”