As the 2024 Bordeaux harvest draws to a close, winemakers are breathing a sigh of relief mixed with anticipation. This year’s vintage was a rollercoaster ride, characterized by extreme weather conditions and unforeseen challenges, but also promises to produce exceptional wines.
Winegrowers in Bordeaux had a particularly difficult time in the 2024 growing season. The region experienced a series of climatic adversities, including heatwaves, dry spells, heavy rainfall and hailstorms. As in previous years, these conditions put the resilience of both the vines and the winegrowers to the test. As a result of the difficult conditions, both economically and climatically, the French Ministry of Agriculture has reported a drastic drop in production compared to previous years. The early start to the harvest in some areas due to global warming has further complicated the situation, with grapes ripening faster and the harvest starting earlier than usual. The unpredictable weather conditions caused additional problems such as uneven ripening and the risk of disease, which required meticulous attention from winegrowers to ensure the quality of the fruit.
In addition to the climatic challenges, winegrowers had to contend with labor shortages and logistical hurdles. The ongoing impact of the pandemic has made it difficult to find enough skilled labor for the important tasks of pruning, harvesting and sorting. The labor-intensive nature of vineyard work means that any shortage of labor can significantly impact the efficiency and thoroughness of the harvest. Despite these challenges, the determination and expertise of Bordeaux winegrowers has won out as they have adapted their techniques and strategies to protect their harvest and maintain quality.
Despite these difficulties, there is a sense of optimism among the winegrowers. The extreme weather conditions, while challenging, have given the grapes remarkable character and depth. The lower yields mean that each grape has received more attention and care, potentially resulting in wines with greater concentration and complexity. The for Bordeaux unusual late Start the Red wine harvest leaves on a excellent Ageing potential the Wines close. The unique Conditions this Year have also to different Flavor profiles guided. First Reports interpret on a balanced Ratio from Acid and Tannins towards, the Wine lovers and –collector inspire should.
First Tastings have shown, that the White wines this Vintage one lively Acid and Freshness exhibit, the the cooler Temperatures and the early Maturity reflect. The red wines are expected to have a deep, rich color, intense aromas and the potential for longevity. The diversity of terroirs in Bordeaux means that each sub-region has contributed its own characteristics to the overall vintage, resulting in a mosaic of flavors and aromas that reflect the uniqueness of the 2024 vintage.
As the last grapes are harvested and the fermentation process has begun, the true quality of the 2024 vintage is beginning to reveal itself. Initial tastings in our cellar with members of the Thomas Duclos team suggest that 2024 could be a memorable vintage, with wines characterized by exceptional character and a good balance between fruit and freshness. The meticulous care taken throughout the season and during the late harvest (which ends in the second week of October), as well as the innovative techniques used in our winery, will play a decisive role in shaping the final wine. Therefore, we have every reason to believe that the 2024 vintage can be celebrated for many years to come.
In summary, while the 2024 vintage has faced significant challenges, we believe it also holds the promise of producing some of the most memorable wines with reasonable yields at our winery in recent years. This year’s vintage is a testament to the motivation, resilience and innovation of our entire team of winemakers who ensure that even in the face of adversity, excellence prevails.