The Lowest Grape Crush in 20 Years

A preliminary report from the US Department of Agriculture indicates that California’s 2024 grape crush is the lowest for 20 years.

California, responsible for about 80% of U.S. wine production, is facing an unusually small 2024 vintage. The Pacific Region Grape Crush Report, released by the California Department of Food and Agriculture on February 10, recorded a total grape crush—red and white combined—of 2.844 million tonnes.

That marks a 24% drop from 2023’s 3.685 million tonnes and the lowest volume in 20 years. Notably, this figure falls well below the projections made in January by the Silicon Valley Bank wine industry report.

Reasons behind the drop include more than 37,000 acres of vineyard grubbed up last year to address an oversupply issue.

Of note as we look at the global picture for wine, the Associated Press reports that President Donald Trump on Thursday threatened a 200% tariff on European wine, Champagne and spirits if the European Union goes forward with a planned tariff on American whiskey.