"Although the harvest is somewhat delayed compared to 2023, and has not yet started on a large scale in the region, it is estimated that production could be at the same level as last year - around 90 million litres - and there may always be variations slightly above or below these values", indicated the president of the Viticulture Commission of the Vinhos Verdes Region (CVRVV), Dora Simões, in a note sent to Lusa news agency.

Dora Simões stresses, however, that it is still too early to know how 2024 will go in terms of total production volume since only the sparkling wine harvest and the harvest of earlier varieties have begun.

"It is already possible to say that the general quality of the grapes is quite good and, if current conditions continue, it will be a year of excellent grape quality for the Vinho Verde region", she adds.

The president of the committee also states that, in this wine-growing year, temperatures were higher on average for part of the year than last year, which influenced the vegetative cycle of the vines, causing "earlier budding, but delaying flowering in May due to low temperatures during that month".

"There was an incidence of mildew and black rot, which affected the productivity of some vineyards", he says, adding that the region has a significant number of young vineyards, as a result of the restructuring carried out over the last decade, so it will be possible that losses recorded due to cryptogamic diseases and sunburn can be offset by the production of young vineyards in the region.

The Vinho Verde Region Viticulture Commission is holding another edition of the Open Day on Saturday, between 10:00 and 19:00, entitled "Quintas ao Sábado", which will feature 14 vineyards and producers.

Walks in the vineyard, art workshops in the vineyard for adults and children, tourist train rides, concerts, music, and wine tastings are some of the activities that visitors can enjoy in various parts of the region, such as Monção, Penafiel, Lousada, Valongo, Celorico de Basto, Melgaço, Barcelos and Amarante.

Participation is free, but the committee recommends prior registration.