The Drinks Business reports that Champagne could begin harvesting as early as 10 August in warmer sites, potentially setting the region’s earliest recorded picking date after early flowering, severe spring frosts and heatwave conditions. The official start date is currently expected to be 15 August, but Montgueux may begin earlier, while producers are balancing healthy fruit against risks from high temperatures, sunburn and reduced yields after frost damage of around 40% on average.