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Excellent climatic conditions as early as February encouraged premature bud break in the South of France. Flowering took place under perfect conditions at the end of April, which led to predictions of an early harvest.
As with the rest of France, the summer was marked by oppressively hot, dry weather. However, as such weather conditions are normal for the Mediterranean basin, the region did not suffer to the same extent as others.
Harvesting started at the end of August, about a week earlier than usual.
The younger vines suffered more from the drought than the older vines, as their root structure is less deeply developed. As a result, some younger vines were harvested early in order to avoid the grapes drying out. Generally speaking however, the quality of the fruit harvested has been excellent, without excessively high alcohol levels and good balanced acidity.
The whites (Chardonnay, Sauvignon and Viognier) should be rich and aromatic. The reds will have good deep colour and excellent aromas ... its hard to go wrong with good quality grapes !
The last reds (Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon and Mourvèdre) were harvested by the 20th September and initial tank tastings show very promising results. This should be an excellent vintage, even if the drought has resulted in a loss of 20 - 30% of volume compared to most years.
