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| June of 2000 |
| February 2001 |
| May 2001 |
| July 2001 |
| September 2001 |
| September 2002 |
| September 2003 |
| What a year in France . . . The grapes are still being brought into the wineries in Burgundy so the final word is not in yet. But we can say that this will be a year of contrasts for French winemakers. While many estates in the south of France are dealing with a vintage destroyed by summer flooding, Burgundy & Champagne are anticipating a fantastic vintage. After a cold and dry winter, temperatures in February and March were quite mild. Although the weather in May was mixed, early June saw higher than normal temperatures in preparation for the flower in mid-June. July and August were mildly sunny but without rain and there were no traumatic weather events (like Volnay in 2001). The best quality wines will come from wineries and négociants who limited yields. Low yields favor higher maturity levels. The pinot noir grapes look great - no rot and great sugar levels which will lead to solid color and alcohol levels. Chardonnay is showing lower sugar levels so many estates are harvesting their pinots first (and as quick as possible since September weather is unpredictable) and will go back for the Chardonnay later. So it looks like another great year in Burgundy. One local producer says “Its too good to be true!” Although winemakers will not compare this year to any other, local officials are comparing the reds this year to two of the best vintages in the last 15 years - 1990 and 1999. We will keep you updated! |
