Canary Islands DOP Grape Harvest Sees 18% Decrease Due to Drought and Phylloxera

The 2025 grape harvest for the Protected Designation of Origin (DOP) Islas Canarias has concluded, revealing a significant decrease in yield. This year’s harvest has raised concerns among local producers and stakeholders, as the decline in grape production could have far-reaching implications for the region’s wine industry.

Significant Reduction in Grape Yield

In this year’s campaign, over 1.3 million kilograms of grapes were harvested, marking an 18% decline from previous years. This downturn is primarily attributed to the prolonged stress on vineyards resulting from seven consecutive years of drought. The impact of climate change has been felt acutely in the Canary Islands, where irregular bud break and adverse weather conditions have further complicated the growing season. The DOP Islas Canarias has reported that these factors have significantly affected various wine-growing regions across the archipelago, leading to a harvest that falls short of expectations.

The decline in yield not only affects the quantity of grapes available for winemaking but also raises concerns about the quality of the wine produced. As vineyards struggle to cope with the ongoing drought, the potential for producing high-quality wines may be compromised. Winemakers are now faced with the challenge of maintaining their standards while dealing with reduced grape availability.

Challenges from Phylloxera Detection

In addition to the challenges posed by drought, the report also highlights the complications arising from the detection of phylloxera in Tenerife. This pest, known for its devastating impact on grapevines, has led to administrative measures that restrict the movement of harvested grapes between certain regions and islands. Such restrictions have created logistical challenges for wineries within the DOP, complicating their ability to process and distribute their products effectively.

The presence of phylloxera has prompted the DOP Islas Canarias to emphasize the need for corrective actions to prevent similar issues in future harvests. The organization is working closely with local authorities and agricultural experts to develop strategies that will help mitigate the impact of this pest and safeguard the health of the vineyards. The situation underscores the importance of vigilance and proactive measures in protecting the region’s viticultural heritage.

Resilience Amidst Declining Volume

Despite the overall reduction in grape volume, DOP Islas Canarias-Canary Wine has solidified its status as the leading Designation of Origin in the region. Notably, for the first time, grape collection in Tenerife surpassed the combined total of the five other local designations, underscoring a significant achievement for the DOP. This milestone reflects the dedication and resilience of the local wine community, which continues to strive for excellence even in the face of adversity.

Currently, the DOP is managed by the Association of Vinegrowers and Winemakers of the Canaries (AVIBO). This organization plays a crucial role in overseeing the region’s wine production, managing 54 affiliated wineries, 817 registered grape growers, and 621 hectares of vineyards across the archipelago. AVIBO’s commitment to supporting local producers and promoting the unique qualities of Canary wines is vital for the ongoing success of the DOP.

As the DOP Islas Canarias navigates these challenges, the focus remains on innovation and adaptation. Winemakers are exploring new techniques and practices to enhance vineyard resilience, including the adoption of sustainable farming methods and the use of drought-resistant grape varieties. These efforts are essential for ensuring the long-term viability of the region’s wine industry and maintaining its reputation for quality.

Key points

• The 2025 grape harvest for DOP Islas Canarias concluded with over 1.3 million kilograms collected.
• This represents an 18% decrease compared to previous years.
• The decline is attributed to seven years of drought and unfavorable weather conditions.
• Phylloxera detection in Tenerife has restricted grape movement between regions.
• DOP Islas Canarias has become the most significant Designation of Origin in the Canaries.
• Tenerife’s grape collection surpassed the total of five other local designations for the first time.
• The DOP is managed by AVIBO, which includes 54 wineries and 817 grape growers.