VOICED: A bumper crop is creating more problems for Champagne industry

The video discusses the grape harvest and its impact on the champagne industry. Despite a bumper crop due to favorable weather, the industry faces challenges with a 19% sales decline, particularly affecting exporters. Small producers targeting local markets are less impacted. To address the surplus of unsold champagne, the governing body has mandated a 26% reduction in grape harvest. The new champagne will not be available until 2012, highlighting the industry's strategic adjustments to balance supply and demand.

What factors contributed to the bumper crop of grapes mentioned in the text?

How did the sales of French bubbly change in the first semester of the year?

What difficult choice did the champagne industry's governing body have to make regarding the grape harvest?

What is the expected impact on the grape harvest for winegrowers this year compared to last year?

When is the champagne from this year's harvest expected to be released on the market?