The primeur testing in the Bordeaux region took place from 24 to 27 April 2023. It is always a highlight at our winery. It was a privilege to participate at the premier tastings in the house of the count Stephan von Neipperg, who very generously invites us every year to present our primeur wines in his beautiful and prestigious Chateau Canon La Gaffeliere. Over the years, we have become friends and enjoy the short time spent together during of the primeur tastings. We often find some time to chat about all aspects of our current world and politics, but also of the most recent development in wine making.
As for the vintage 2022, we are confident it will be remembered as one of the greatest that Chateau Le Pin Beausoleil has ever produced. Accordingly, the feedback by numerous journalists, sommeliers, wine experts, producers, and importers was very positive and encouraging. Julian Lavenu from Derenoncourt consults also confirms our positive judgment. I happened to meet Stéphane Derenoncourt at a tasting event, and he was very pleased with the Le Pin Beausoleil 2022. The 2002 vintage presents with a mouthful of dark berries, red cherries, plums, and mocha, and despite an intense and full body keeps a good acidity and freshness, expressing the minerals of the excellent terroir and fine tannins. We are particularly proud that the marvelous parcels in Saint Vincent de Pertignas (providing the backbone and structure for the wine) and Merignas (adding the muscle and fruit) create wines with a pleasant harmony of structure and elegance.
As we have produced only a limited volume, due to the relatively dry weather conditions of 2022, the primeur offering might be highly interesting for our customers. Of the 2022 vintage, we will produce around 850 to 900 cases only. Moreover, we are currently sold out for most former vintages of the Pin Beausoleil, including our 2020. Therefore it might be wise for our long-term customers to acquire with a certain attrition of the 2022 vintage en primeur, if they wish to have this long-lived and precious vintage in their cellar.
Over the past four weeks, Southwest France, including Bordeaux, has experienced a mix of weather conditions. There have been periods of heavy rainfall, cooler temperatures, and some sunny days. The rainfall has been above-average in some areas, causing concern for wine growers and farmers. However, some dry spells have helped balance out moisture levels. The cooler temperatures have delayed the flowering process for vines, potentially impacting the harvest timing, but may also produce more complex flavors. Despite the challenges, growers remain optimistic and experienced in adapting to changing conditions.
During the period of primeur tasting we were able to follow the sprouting of the vines. As the water reservoirs could replenish following the rainfall, sprouting appeared very uniform and powerful, creating a beautiful scenery. Moreover, due to the mild weather conditions, there is no risk of frost damaging the vines this year. So we are prepared for another period season of winegrowing in 2023.