Just one week before Les primeurs”, let’s make retrospective analysis of the growing cycle of the Bordeaux vintage 2023. This Bordeaux vintage is special as marked by exceptional mildew pressure during ripening.
In fact, according to the monthly data of ISVV the beginning was inspiring: during dormancy weather conditions close to normal; the coolness and mildness of the budburst time allowed the vineyards to escape the frosts episodes at the beginning of the April; regarding precipitation, the significant rainy episodes of March and May made it possible to reach an average consistent with normal. These conditions allowed regular but not too rapid growth, favoring the balance between the vegetative and reproductive parts for homogeneous growth of the inflorescence. Flowering took place during a relatively dry and hot period (last week of May and first of June), in a few days, without dripping. The climatic conditions at the start of summer favored the vegetative growth of the berries.
Suddenly, the weather changed in June 2023: 26 days of maximum temperature above 25°C and 8 days of significant rain in the form of almost weekly storms that can bring up to 45mm per episode. The persistent humidity and heat allowed mildew to complete its cycle in Bordeaux vineyards. As reported, in Gironde, 90% of vines were affected by mildew. Merlot is the most affected grape variety. Excessive heat in August and September can remind us of 2022 vintage but in longer period. With the climate change it’s becoming normal.
Therefore, “Les primeurs” week from 22 to 25 April will show wine’s potential.
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