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Vintage 2003
The autumn began well with a good October, but November was
unusually wet, with abundant and heavy rainfall. The winter
began in a normal way, with a little snow. Below average rainfall
in April and May was the second unusual feature of the year.
Vegetation developed quickly creating adequate foliage for flowering
which began in the first week of June. Late spring and early
summer were warm with above average seasonal temperatures, sometimes
over 30*C, and almost no rain at all.
This almost African heatwave lasted throughout the summer and
initially caused the production vegetation to accelerate considerably,
stimulating physiological accumulation processes.
The continuing high temperatures and absence of rain caused
some vineyards to suffer from the water shortage, especially
the younger ones, those situated on ridges and those more exposed
to the sun. |
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| The maturation |
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| Ripening took place 7-10 days earlier than usual,
and the harvest began on September 3rd. The grapes
were small and thick-skinned, with good sugar content
and aromas but slightly lacking in acidity. The
harvest was quick and easy in all the vineyards
and the summery weather continued through September.
There were no cases of diseased grapes. This is
by no means a year to forget, but more rain would
have made it a better year, although it is still
early days for a thorough assessment of the 2003
vintage. |
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