Bordeaux 2014

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Bordeaux 2014 is under way and, while it is still too early to call the vintage, the Bordelaise are relatively optimistic.

The region experienced high rainfall from October 2013-March 2014 (on par with that of 2000-2001) and huge variations in spring temperatures meant that mildew was a problem for the vignerons on both the Left and Right Bank. An early bud break in April was followed by relatively successful flowering over the next two months –  thanks to sunshine through May and June. Late summer was humid – to say the very least – with reported 8.5 hours of ‘dry air’ (less than 40% humidity) compared to 132 hours in 2013 and 380 hours in 2009. This has been combated in the vineyard by effeuillage (the removal of leaves around bunches) which allows for air to circulate the grapes and reduce the risk of rot.

As Gavin Quinney, Bordeaux-based winemaker and writer, wrote in his guest blog post on Jancisrobinson.com, “As for comparisons, it's still too early to call. We're not going to see the power and concentration of 2000, 2005 or 2010, or the warmth and generosity of 2009. The September sun saved the weaker vintages of 2002 and 2007 but 2014 is in far better shape going into the final run-up to harvest. It feels like a cross between 2001 and 2004 and it could be just what Bordeaux needs. A good or even very good vintage of extremely drinkable wine, with decent yields and attractive pricing. But there's a long, long way to go before any of that comes to fruition.”

We will keep you updated on the vintage over the next few months. As you may recall, Atlas has steered clear of the last three Bordeaux En Primeur vintages as quality was either not there or release prices were too high. It will be interesting to see what this 2014 vintage brings following the 2013 campaign which provided little incentive for the client to purchase.