Champagne Flashcards
2021
Very rainy, 20% crop reduction due to mildew and frost. Grapes had trouble ripening.
2020
Heatwaves and high ph and the highest tartaric acid ever.
2011
Notable for its erratic growing season, which started warm and dry but then became cooler and wetter in June and July. Conditions improved briefly in August but the (early) harvest was problematic and the potential alcohol of the musts was the lowest for many years
WS 79, Approach cautiosly
2010
A taxing year with dry conditions retarding grape development early in the season. When rain arrived in August it was torrential, causing widespread disease pressure. The return of dry conditions in September helped some producers over the line, but sorting in the vineyard and winery was crucial
WS 88
2007
An unusually warm spring led to early flowering and optimism which soon gave way to disappointment with one of the murkiest summers on record. Conditions improved towards September allowing a fair crop, with Chardonnay outperforming the Pinots. Above average acidities
WS 89
2003
Spring frosts followed by one of the hottest summers on record led to small volumes and typically very ripe wines of middling quality. Some fine Pinot Noir-dominant blends.
WS 88
2001
A generally poor vintage characterised by rot and underripeness thanks to a wet and gloomy September.
