1991
1991
1991
The frost on April 21st struck the vineyard very unevenly. The merlot vines, mostly located on the clay-limestone soils in the lower part of the estate, were completely frozen. Fortunately our finest cabernet sauvignon vines on the gravelly slopes that "look out over the river" were entirely spared.
Right up until the harvest, we hoped that these conditions—ultimately quite similar to those of the 1945 and 1961 vintages—would lead to another great year. But at the last moment, rain tempered our expectations.
Nevertheless, it is a fine achievement and an excellent wine. On the rare occasions we've opened a few bottles from this very small harvest, we've been surprised by both the concentration and the smoothness of this wine. (February 2025)
Climate
1991 was the year of the great spring frost on 21st April. The cold delayed vine growth until the end of May. But an extraordinarily hot, dry summer allowed the vegetation to catch up and brought this very small harvest to an excellent level of ripeness. Unfortunately, heavy rain just before the harvest took the shine off what would have been a remarkable vintage. (The picking began on 30th September)
The frost on April 21st struck the vineyard very unevenly. The merlot vines, mostly located on the clay-limestone soils in the lower part of the estate, were completely frozen. Fortunately our finest cabernet sauvignon vines on the gravelly slopes that "look out over the river" were entirely spared.
Right up until the harvest, we hoped that these conditions—ultimately quite similar to those of the 1945 and 1961 vintages—would lead to another great year. But at the last moment, rain tempered our expectations.
Nevertheless, it is a fine achievement and an excellent wine. On the rare occasions we've opened a few bottles from this very small harvest, we've been surprised by both the concentration and the smoothness of this wine. (February 2025)
Climate
1991 was the year of the great spring frost on 21st April. The cold delayed vine growth until the end of May. But an extraordinarily hot, dry summer allowed the vegetation to catch up and brought this very small harvest to an excellent level of ripeness. Unfortunately, heavy rain just before the harvest took the shine off what would have been a remarkable vintage. (The picking began on 30th September)
Service & tasting
Discover our tips for serving and tasting your wine in the best conditions.
Service & tasting
Discover our tips for serving and tasting your wine in the best conditions.