Vigernons in France are rejoicing in the expectation of a bountiful crop of grapes this year.

Despite a foreboding early start of the harvest (Aug. 10 in Burgundy), growers report more than a 6% increase in production. The quality of the grapes look good too.

While this sounds like positive news in a weird year, the fact is that French winemakers are having a difficult time selling what wine they make. U.S. tariffs and the COVID-19 virus combined to stifle sales to a worldwide market. Sales were so bad that many producers turned unsold stock into hand sanitizer.

This year many producers are saying they will limit production to keep prices elevated and to avoid bulk inventory.

For consumers, don’t expect any price breaks despite the over-abundance of French wine. Tariffs will inflate the cost.