As we settle into February, the global wine industry is buzzing with activity. In the Southern Hemisphere, vineyards are in full swing, with grape harvests beginning across key wine regions. Meanwhile, in the Northern Hemisphere, winemakers are heading to some of the world’s biggest wine fairs to showcase their latest vintages. Whether you’re a wine lover, a collector, or just curious about what’s trending, here’s what’s happening in the world of wine right now—and a sneak peek at what’s coming in 2025.
Harvest Time in the Southern Hemisphere
For wine producers in countries like Argentina, Chile, South Africa, Australia, and New Zealand, February and March mark one of the busiest times of the year—harvest season! As summer winds down, vineyards are alive with activity, carefully picking grapes at the perfect ripeness to ensure another fantastic vintage.
A fun fact? In Mendoza, Argentina, the grape harvest is such a big deal that they throw an entire festival for it! The Fiesta Nacional de la Vendimia is a spectacular celebration featuring parades, music, dancing, and, of course, plenty of Malbec.
This year, winemakers are keeping a close eye on the weather, as climate conditions always play a crucial role in the quality of the vintage. In Australia, for example, producers are reporting promising results from cooler conditions that could enhance acidity and balance in their wines, while South African winemakers are predicting an excellent year for their Chenin Blanc and Pinotage.
The North Heads to the Big Wine Fairs
While the South is busy harvesting, wine professionals in Europe and North America are on the road, attending major trade fairs to present their latest releases.
This month, Wine Paris & Vinexpo Paris (12-14 February) is kicking things off, bringing together thousands of producers, buyers, and sommeliers from around the world. Next up, Barcelona will host Barcelona Wine Week (3-5 February), and then in March, all eyes will turn to ProWein in Düsseldorf, one of the largest and most influential wine fairs globally.
Most of these fairs are trade-only, meaning they’re designed for industry professionals—winemakers, distributors, buyers, and sommeliers—rather than the general public. However, if you’re a wine enthusiast looking for a tasting experience, some fairs, like Vinitaly in Verona (6-9 April), offer dedicated days for wine lovers. Additionally, many wineries and wine regions organise consumer-friendly festivals, where you can taste and discover new wines without needing a trade pass.
What’s Coming in 2025? Trends to Watch
Looking ahead, 2025 is expected to bring exciting trends in the wine world. Here are a few to keep an eye on:
• Low-ABV and No-Alcohol Wines – The demand for lighter, non-alcoholic alternatives continues to grow, and winemakers are stepping up their game with better-tasting options.
• Orange and Natural Wines – These minimal-intervention wines are no longer a niche trend; they’re becoming mainstream.
• Regenerative Farming – Beyond organic and biodynamic, vineyards are focusing on sustainability through regenerative agriculture, improving soil health while producing top-quality wines.
• AI in Winemaking – From predicting harvest times to helping winemakers perfect blends, artificial intelligence is making its way into the vineyards.
Final Sip
Whether it’s harvest time in the Southern Hemisphere or wine fair season in the North, the world of wine never slows down. As 2025 unfolds, we’re in for another exciting year of innovation, sustainability, and, of course, incredible wines. So, if you’re planning your next wine adventure, now’s the perfect time to explore the latest releases, discover new trends, and maybe even raise a glass to what’s coming next!