After a relatively dry winter, a spell of unsettled weather set in, marked by thunderstorms at the very start of the growing season. Spring was full of contrasts, with alternating periods of very mild and cooler conditions. Bud break occurred later on average, allowing most plots to be spared from frost in early April. The mild, wet spring significantly increased the threat of mildew in the vineyards throughout the season. However, these conditions led to steady yet not too rapid vine growth.
Flowering unfolded in late May/early June, in optimum dry conditions with no shot berries. The rest of summer saw high temperatures and rainstorms, supporting the growth of the berries until véraison (colour change). The Indian summer in September and October once again favoured late ripening and ensured ideal harvest conditions. The Cabernets were a great success this year, dominating our rosés. Our rosé wine selections came from carefully-chosen plots, harvested later this year, in the second half of September. Direct pressing after very short skin-contact under a controlled atmosphere produced a pale rose colour, while enhancing the wine’s richness and smoothness on the palate.