2003 VINTAGE

The vintage of the heat wave

WEATHER DURING THE GROWING SEASON

Bud break occurred early, as did flowering (mid-May). At this stage, vine growth was already 2-3 weeks ahead of a normal year. A first heat wave began on June 22nd. The mercury shot up to 40° C. Véraison (color change) took place on July 14th. A long-term heat wave set in during the month of August, with an average maximum temperature in excess of 32° C – some 6° more than usual. The thermometer went above 40° C on two occasions. A potential alcohol level of 13° was attained as early as August 15th. Unsettled, but mild weather with 30 mm of rain on September 5-10 brought on a massive lightening attack of Botrytis cinerea that affected the entire crop.

HARVEST

Heat and sunshine, accompanied by a good south-easterly wind, materialised on September 14th. The vineyard plots were picked in quick, unbroken succession, one after the other, from September 19-25. Harvesting was a real race against the clock. The concentration grew with each passing day. However, the grapes were all picked in time before this became too great. The end result is a sumptuous, yet perfectly well-balanced vintage. Initial tastings show the wine to be concentrated, powerful, fresh, and elegant.

THE WINE

Fermented and aged in barrel for three years