2001 VINTAGE

"The" Vintage of Château de Fargues? An excep- tional success in richness, complexity, length and balance. Late maturity saved by a cool September and an Indian summer worthy of 1997 or 1988.

WEATHER DURING THE GROWING SEASON

Winter was mild and wet, giving way to a very rainy spring (until late April). Bud burst took place later than usual, coinciding with the beginning of a dry period. The flowering took place over the first ten days of June. Although the weather was cold and awful in July, according to a local adage, août fait le moût (the weather in August determines the quality of the wine). Hot, sunny weather finally arrived, followed by storms from the 15th to the end of the month. September was cold, dry, and conducive to slow ripening and the maintaining of good, healthy acidity. Temperatures rose significantly in early October after a few showers in late September. This brought on the proliferation of botrytis.

HARVEST

A first wave of picking from 29/09 to 04/10 produced very pure, but only moderately concentrated fruit. Fortunately, an Indian summer set in and stayed for some time. In doubt as to the reliability of the weather forecast, several waves of picking were launched on October 15th. These provided increasingly rich and concentrated grapes. On Saint Luke's Day (18/10) a shower gave a boost to botrytis on the remaining grapes and picking drew to a close on October 24th. The quality of this vintage, characterised by concentration, complexity, variety, and tremendously pure flavours, was totally unexpected.

THE WINE

Fermented and aged in barrel for three years Production: less than 20,000 bottles Alcohol: 13.90° - Residual sugar: 132 g/l - Acidity: 4.90 g/l