Bordeaux: Vineyard Report Mid December 2009

You might recall that we posted a Bordeaux vintage update back at the end of October on our website. Well, now our friends at Bordeaux Vins Selection have released further details on the exciting 2009 vintage.


Their report in summary:
Winter provided an idyllic start to the cycle. A mixture of cold and rain left vines in good condition with ample stores of water for the rest of the year. 
An early Spring brought with it quick and even flowering allowing bunches to arrive at maturity together during the grape-picking.
Humidity alternated with heat in July facilitating even and regular development of the grapes. August's climate was sunny, hot and dry and continued into September where the advent of cool nights caused a slower, more even, maturing process. A short period of rain in the middle of the month relieved the stress on the vines and the subsequent harvest was relaxed through to the middle of October. 


Analysing the year's climatic conditions alone leads to a prediction of a great vintage. The grapes were gathered in incredibly good condition and the technical teams have worked hard even thought the richness of the must has not been equaled since 1982.
The resulting wines from this vintage are rich in density, fruit and freshness. Although the pH is slightly higher they remain balanced. A mythical vintage could be in the offer judging by the roundness of tannin and the succulence gained from a few weeks aging. It all brings to mind past vintages like 1982 and 1989.


Click HERE for the full report.