CNBC
Extreme heat spurs earliest-ever Champagne harvest, putting its famous taste to the test
Saturday, August 15, 2026
Champagne producers in France harvested grapes earlier than any recorded year due to high temperatures, according to the region's wine committee. The early harvest raises questions about whether the resulting wine will maintain the flavor characteristics associated with Champagne. Producers also face tariff-related trade complications and declining consumer demand in some markets.
Original reporting: https://www.cnbc.com/2026/08/15/heatwave-champagne-harvest-climate.html
