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The 2026 grape harvest in the Region of Murcia is expected to make a strong recovery, with around 50,000 tonnes of grapes destined for winemaking, up 15.9% on last year's figure.

 

For wine producers in Jumilla, where Monastrell remains the area's best-known variety, the forecast points to a better season after the lower yields recorded in 2025.

 

There’s also growing evidence of the strength of Murcia's grape exports abroad, with the United Kingdom proving one of the biggest growth markets.

 

Murcia exported €292.46 million worth of table grapes in 2025, an increase of 19% compared with the previous year. Sales to the UK jumped by an impressive 109%, reaching more than €56 million.

 

The Region produces more than 90% of Spain's seedless table grapes and is the leading producer in Europe, according to the regional government.

 

Agriculture Minister Joaquín Buendía highlighted the figures during a visit to a farm in Alhama de Murcia, describing the Region as an international leader in the sector.

 

The stronger outlook also extends to the wine grape harvest, with the first estimates putting production at around 50,000 tonnes. That's 6,882 tonnes more than the 43,118 tonnes estimated for 2025.

 

More favourable growing conditions during the season have helped improve average yields, according to the Community's Agricultural Production and Statistics Service.

 

Monastrell continues to dominate the wine-growing areas of Jumilla, Yecla and Bullas, with red grape varieties accounting for most of the production.

 

The regional government is also putting significant funding into the wine industry. More than €11.7 million is being allocated through the Wine Sector Intervention programme between 2023 and 2027, supporting winery modernisation, vineyard conversion, competitiveness and measures to deal with market difficulties.

 

This year, €1.6 million will be paid before October 15 to support eight winery modernisation projects, linked to more than €4 million of investment. A further six projects are already being processed, with €1.7 million in aid expected to support investments of almost €4.8 million.

 

The projects include new technology, greater automation and digitalisation, alongside improvements in energy efficiency and water use.

 

International promotion is another priority, with 34 programmes receiving support to promote Murcian wines in markets outside Spain.

 

For Jumilla and the wider wine sector, the combination of a stronger harvest, investment in modernisation and growing international demand offers some welcome positive news after a challenging period for producers.

 

 

 

Image: CARM