LatestChampagne producers in Hautvillers are harvesting for the earliest record, starting around mid-August due to extreme heat, frost and drought that accelerated ripening and trimmed yields, with some growers noting about a 10% crop loss but maintained quality. The milestone harvest reflects a broader climate-changed trend across France (and parts of Italy), driving the push for new grape varieties, advanced production methods, and labor-intensive logistics to preserve quality as earlier picking becomes more common.Aug 20, 2026