France Is Harvesting Champagne Grapes Earlier Than Ever

France grows grapes to make Champagne. This year, farmers are picking grapes earlier than ever before. Some farmers started picking on August 6. Others began on August 12. This is the earliest harvest on record.

Why are grapes ready so early? The weather is warmer now. Warm weather helps grapes grow faster. The grapes get more sugar and less acid.

Acid is important for Champagne. It gives Champagne its fresh taste. Farmers must pick grapes at the right time. The grapes need enough sugar but also enough acid. Climate change is making the weather warmer. This changes when farmers can harvest their grapes.