The Aurora Wine Cooperative estimates a harvest of approximately 85 million kilograms of grapes in the 2026 season, a volume 18,7% higher than that achieved in 2025. This growth is driven by the excellent health of the vineyards, favorable weather conditions, and the increased cultivation of varieties destined for sparkling wine production. Historically, Aurora's harvest represents between 10% and 15% of the grape harvest for processing in Rio Grande do Sul.
One of the highlights of recent years is the expansion of approximately 12% in the area planted with grapes for sparkling wine, especially Malvasia Aromática and varieties from the Moscato family. This expansion will also result in an estimated 15% increase in the volume of these varieties, compared to the previous harvest.
The varieties, both wine grapes and American and hybrid varieties, are in excellent health, with the vineyards of the earliest varieties in the ripening phase and beginning of the harvest. The mid-cycle varieties are in the color change phase, and the later varieties are in the berry filling and color change phase. Development is slightly behind schedule compared to recent years due to the more prolonged cold, but within the expected range for a regular cycle. The Chardonnay harvest for sparkling wine begins in the first half of this month.
Among American and hybrid varieties, mainly used for juices and table wines, the scenario is equally positive: high health and ripening within the standard. Among early-maturing varieties, such as Isabel, Concord, and BRS Magna, progress is consistent and with adequate volume.
According to Maurício Bonafé, agricultural manager of the Aurora Wine Cooperative, the good performance of the plants this season is directly linked to the favorable weather conditions during the winter period, allowing the plant to express its maximum production capacity.
“Bud fertility is one of them, one of the main indicators of productive potential. The accumulated cold during the winter was sufficient for uniform and vigorous sprouting, essential for the correct formation of the bunches,” he adds.
“The weather has been an important ally, especially in winter, which ensured good bud fertility and very homogeneous budding. All signs point to excellent quality grapes. Factors such as the Babo degree, which determine ripeness and sugar intensity, are confirmed during the harvest, but with good prospects for these quality indicators,” Bonafé points out.
The first grapes are already being harvested, and the harvest will continue until the second half of March. Aurora, which will celebrate its 95th anniversary in 2026, projects a promising cycle also for varieties such as Isabel, Merlot, Tannat, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Lorena, among others.
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