France to exceptionally allow the production of stronger champagne than before

The first grapes were cut in early August, and the harvest expanded by the middle of the month. The industry association called it "the earliest ever recorded in Champagne" and said the 2026 growing season was marked by severe spring frosts, exceptionally early flowering and five summer heatwaves.

Maxime Toubart, co-chair of the Comité Champagne, told AFP that hotter weather means "this unusual harvest will probably become the norm in 10 to 15 years". Stéphane Vignon, a producer in Verzenay, told The Times: "The Mediterranean climate is moving north. This is year one of a new cycle. It's unlikely to be every year, but it will happen again".

Higher-strength champagne may not match consumer preferences, wine columnist and author Jane Anson told The Times. "Today people increasingly prefer lower-alcohol," she said, adding: "The battle between what consumers want and what nature provides must be very stressful for producers." The 2026 vintage is unlikely to reach shelves until 2028 because champagne must age for at least 15 months.