What factor contributes to the potential destruction of 10% of the crop in Argentina?

Summer hail is a significant risk for grape growers in Argentina, particularly in the regions where the key wine-producing areas are located. During the summer months, intense thunderstorms can produce hail, which can lead to considerable damage to grapevines. This damage can affect the leaves, stems, and fruit, ultimately reducing the yield for the harvest.

Argentina's wine regions, like Mendoza, are often prone to weather extremes, and hail storms can lead to losses estimated at around 10% of the crop. The impact of summer hail is particularly critical because it can occur right before harvest or even earlier in the growing season, resulting in both direct destruction of the fruit and potential long-term harm to the vine's productivity.

Other factors like flooding, frost, and intense heat can also impact grape production, but summer hail stands out as a specific and significant hazard that can rapidly cause substantial crop loss during the growing season.