With the world of fine wine converging on Bordeaux for the eagerly anticipated 'en primeur' tastings in the latter part of April, this report delves into how the weather patterns of 2023 have influenced the wines and crop size.
Offering a comprehensive backdrop, it examines why the wines exhibit their distinct characteristics even at this early stage, and contextualizes the 2023 vintage by juxtaposing weather conditions with those of previous years.
Production overview
In 2023, Bordeaux produced a diverse range of wines, with reds dominating at 81%, followed by 11% dry white, 4% rosé, 3% crémant (mostly white), and 1% sweet white. Despite this diversity, it was the third consecutive year of small crops overall, with 384 million liters and 37hl/ha (hectoliters per hectare). This trend contrasts with the higher yields of the previous decade, emphasizing a significant decline in production volume.
Comparative Analysis
A closer look at the breakdown of Bordeaux appellations reveals a challenging year for generic red Bordeaux and Bordeaux Supérieur in terms of yields. However, dry whites saw a more favorable outcome. Historical data indicates that years marked by low yields were particularly demanding, with adverse conditions impacting overall production.
Weather Conditions
Weather played a crucial role in shaping the 2023 vintage. It was notably warm overall, with average rainfall from March to September. Despite being a challenging year for vineyard management due to a high risk of mildew, Bordeaux experienced good summer conditions, leading to a successful harvest for most red grape varieties.
Impact of Mildew
Mildew posed a significant threat to vineyards in 2023, affecting approximately 90% of Bordeaux vineyards to varying degrees. However, while some estates suffered losses, others managed to mitigate the impact, resulting in a fine crop in certain regions.
Quality Expectations
Despite the challenges posed by mildew, Bordeaux vineyards that avoided significant damage are poised to produce wines characterized by fruit, finesse, freshness, and balance. While not likely to rival exceptional vintages like 2016 or 2018, 2023 is expected to rank between those and less favorable years like 2017 and 2021.
In conclusion, the Bordeaux 2023 vintage offers a nuanced narrative of resilience, challenges, and quality potential. As the industry awaits the release of these wines, anticipation runs high for what promises to be another fascinating chapter in Bordeaux's winemaking legacy.
Source: Liv-ex