Olivier Bernard, Präsident der Union des Grands Crus, über den Jahrgang 2017 in Bordeaux
Bordeaux, 12. Januar 2018
Some great successes in 2017 The 2017 vintage will long be remembered for the late frost that occurred on the 27th and 28th of April. This hit our vineyards very hard, especially since the growing season had started early and the vines were quite fragile at that stage.
It is now possible to step back and have an overview of the vintage. This is varied, but includes some outstandingly successful wines.
It is important keep in mind that the frost did not by any means strike all parts of Bordeaux. In fact, many vines, vineyards, and entire regions were almost entirely spared.
The plots that did not suffer grew much more quickly than in an average year. The month of June was very hot and sunny. Fortunately, temperate weather in July and August maintained acidity and gave the grapes beautiful freshness. Sugar levels were not excessive, which made for great balance in the wine… The crop was sizeable and the fruit was in beautiful – and in some instances very beautiful – condition…
As for the vines hit by frost in April, these produced several generations of grapes leading to a small crop. This disparity called for keeping a close watch on ripeness in practically each individual vine – a Herculean task, and for a small volume… It took a great deal of close observation and hard work to produce fine grapes from these vines. However, some estates managed very well, with excellent results. They deserve special kudos…
After especially rigorous sorting during the harvest, followed by untroubled fermentation and putting the new wine into barrel earlier than usual, our grands crus will be selecting their best lots in January to make the final blend.
I know that we can trust them to do an excellent job. I would add that the vineyards that did not undergo frost damage had practically normal yields. Rest assured that there will be lovely wines in each region…
Olivier Bernard, President of the Union des Grands Crus de Bordeaux