Monteberg Winery in Dranouter Begins Record Early Grape Harvest
Dranouter – Monteberg Winery in Dranouter, Heuvelland, commenced its earliest grape harvest on August 16, 2025. Ward Six collected Solaris and Siegerrebe grapes, underscoring the rising quality and climate-induced potential of Belgian wine, reports 24brussels.
As noted by VRT News, the grape harvest started at Monteberg wine estate in Dranouter, located in West Flanders, Belgium. Employees from Ward Six began harvesting Solaris and Siegerrebe grapes today, August 16, 2025.
These grape varieties are known for ripening sooner compared to most others, quickly developing sugars while maintaining a balanced level of natural acids. Other varieties at the estate typically require more time before they are ready for harvesting. The team meticulously checks the grapes to ensure they are harvested at the optimal moment.
Reasons Behind the Unprecedented Early Harvest
Officials explained that this year’s harvest is exceptional due to the timing of the Solaris and Siegerrebe grapes, which are being picked earlier than ever before. Favorable warm and sunny weather has expedited the ripening process. They indicated that early harvesting presents both advantages and challenges, allowing grapes to stay fresh and flavorful, but requiring precise timing to maintain the balance of sugar and acid.
Monteberg Winery has been cultivating vines for nearly 30 years. Over the years, the estate has experienced numerous harvests, but none quite like this. According to the winery, the 2020 harvest, which occurred at the end of August, was already considered early. This year’s harvest, beginning on August 16, marks a new record for the earliest grape picking. A representative from Ward Six remarked,
“In France, they call it ‘du jamais vu,’ which means you’ve never seen anything like this.”
While Belgium traditionally remains a beer country, wine is gradually asserting itself. The quality of Belgian wines continues to rise, along with production levels. The impact of climate change has ushered in more favorable conditions for grape cultivation in the region. Grapes harvested today will be processed into wine that is expected to be ready for tasting by April or May next year.
“Certain cultures are shifting. We see this, for example, with olive plantations. They are increasingly moving north. I think there is a bright future for Belgian winegrowing here.”
Monteberg Winery is situated in Dranouter, in the hilly Heuvelland region of West Flanders. The estate has been producing wine for nearly three decades and is recognized for pioneering early-ripening grape varieties in Belgium, such as Solaris and Siegerrebe.
Although Belgian wine production remains relatively small compared to established wine countries, it has been progressively improving in both quality and quantity. Experts assert that warmer temperatures and extended sunny periods in recent years, partly attributable to climate change, have facilitated earlier ripening and enhanced the sugar-acid balance of the grapes.
