Croatian grape harvest at risk as heat and drought hit vineyards

Croatian grape growers are closely monitoring their vineyards as prolonged heat and drought raise concerns about this year’s harvest, particularly in eastern Croatia.

Vines are currently coping with the extreme temperatures and grape clusters are developing, but growers say the coming weeks will be crucial.

Without significant rainfall, yields could fall and the quality and characteristics of the grapes could also be affected.

In Šarengrad, winemaker Franjo Krešić told RTL Danas that the last substantial rainfall came on 3 July, when around 18 litres of rain per square metre were recorded.

“That saved the vineyard,” he said, adding that another one or two timely periods of rain would create much better conditions ahead of the harvest.

Grape grower Karlo Papak from Ilok said the clusters had developed well so far, but were not yet fully formed.

Growers are now regularly inspecting the vines and monitoring the impact of the dry conditions.

The harvest could also begin earlier than usual. While early September is traditionally considered an ideal period for harvesting, the timing depends on weather conditions and the maturity of the grapes.

Before harvesting begins, growers will analyse samples to determine sugar and acidity levels, which are key indicators in deciding when the grapes are ready.

The prolonged heat could be particularly important for Graševina, the most widely planted grape variety in eastern Croatia. High temperatures can increase sugar levels in grapes, while growers are also seeking to preserve acidity, which contributes to the wine’s freshness.

Growers warn that if the dry weather continues, grapes could begin to shrivel, potentially causing significant losses.

For now, the crop remains in relatively good condition, but the next several days and weeks could prove decisive for Croatia’s 2026 grape harvest.