French growers are reportedly leaving half their grapes on the vine to rot in order to avoid a flooded market.
Supermarkets will be selling cut-price champagne in the run-up to Christmas because of a glut of the sparkling wine that has the celebrated French industry in fear for its future. Seasonal bargains may even result in widespread sales of quality brands as low as £15 a bottle, with supermarkets competing to clear out stock. Over the past year, cases have been piling up as recession-minded Britons turned to alternatives such as cava and prosecco. But for anyone with the willpower to put a few bottles aside, it could be prudent to stock up – a champagne shortage could be only two years away. – From Guardian