Jumilla drought amid floods in Spain

The wine region of Jumilla, on the south eastern coast of Spain, faces an unprecedented crisis as drought conditions which threaten to reduce the 2024 harvest by up to 80%, affecting the renowned Monastrell grape.

Local winemakers warn the situation is “unsustainable” for the future, with Paco Gil, co-owner of Gil Family Estates, describing how extreme drought has brought some vineyards “to the brink of destruction”.

Despite some relief from brief September rains, Jumilla’s third consecutive dry year has severely reduced yields. Esther González de Paz from Wines of Jumilla confirmed that, without major rain, the future of these vineyards remains uncertain. Although irrigation is allowed, water resources are nearly exhausted.

While Gil reports high-quality fruit from the sparse harvest, local authorities are being urged to seek sustainable water solutions as growers grapple with climate challenges and Jumilla’s arid conditions.