Drought begins affecting older Czech vineyards

Prolonged drought is now affecting even older vineyards in South Moravia, whose deep root systems have until now helped them withstand dry conditions. Wine experts say grape berries are becoming smaller in the hardest-hit areas unless vines can be irrigated. The impact varies depending on soil type, with limestone retaining water far better than sandy soils. Many growers have expanded irrigation systems beyond newly planted vines to protect older vineyards as well. Despite the dry weather, experts say this year's harvest still looks promising, although an early grape harvest could begin as soon as August.