Due to the sweltering hot spring and summer of 2022, harvesting the vines that surround Aix-en-Provence began in mid-August which is about one month earlier than usual. Yet expectations are that this year’s vine harvest will yield a good quality vintage due to the unseasonably dry heat. Overall, wine production is anticipated to increase 16% over last year (which was impacted by frost and mildew) and come in 3% above the 5-year average.
One of the most notable trends was the increasing popularity of organic and biodynamic wine production. Many winemakers in the region adopted these practices as a way to reduce their environmental impact and produce wines that were in tune with the natural environment. By using composts and other natural fertilizers, avoiding synthetic pesticides and herbicides, and embracing the principles of lunar and cosmic rhythms, these winemakers aimed to produce wines that reflected the true essence of Aix-en-Provence.
Another trend that continued to gain momentum was the use of alternative grape varieties. While the traditional grapes of the region, such as Grenache, Syrah, and Cinsault, remained popular, many winemakers were experimenting with new and exotic varieties from around the world. This allowed them to create wines with a wider range of aromas, flavors, and textures, and to cater to the ever-evolving tastes of consumers. Some of the most promising alternative grapes that were widely planted in 2022 included Viognier, Petit Verdot, and Tannat.
To ensure the quality in harvesting the vines, winemakers in Aix-en-Provence paid close attention to every aspect of wine production, from vineyard management to winemaking. By carefully monitoring the development of the grapes, they aimed to produce wines that were both rich and complex. To achieve this, many winemakers invested in state-of-the-art winemaking equipment and facilities, including temperature-controlled fermenters, modern presses, and stainless steel tanks. These investments will allow them to produce wines with consistent quality, year after year.