Burgundy | 2021 vintage
While the weather was cool until March, it changed abruptly at the beginning of April, with unexpectedly higher than normal temperatures for the season. This atypical weather pattern directly affected the growth rate of the vines. Bud break had already started, and this was to prove highly problematic just a few days later. As in many other regions of France, a wave of polar air swept across the region, causing several nights of intense frost. Losses ranged from moderate to severe, depending on the area, which obviously had an impact on final yields. The size of the berries was also affected, resulting in some aromatic concentration in the grapes.
Affected by these weather trends, the vineyards became somewhat sluggish in the weeks that followed, with little help from the constant gloom that prevailed in April and May. The weather continued to be cool and rainy, and the return of fine weather towards the beginning of June finally brought hope. This provided ideal conditions for flowering. Rising temperatures stimulated the vines, which gradually made up for lost time.
Unfortunately, weather conditions deteriorated rapidly and new rainy and cool patches dominated throughout July and the first half of August. This led to further losses as a result of the proliferation of mildew, powdery mildew and even botrytis. A major headache for the teams working in the vineyards, who finally found some respite at the end of August with the arrival of more autumn-like conditions.
Eventually, harvesting started on 8 September in the Mâconnais for Crémants, while the harvests for still wines elsewhere in the region began around 20 September. And, quite at odds with traditional grape variety cycles, the Pinot Noir grapes were harvested first, rather than the Chardonnay. For both reds and whites, the best results were achieved by exercising the utmost vigilance when sorting the grapes. This approach yielded good quality juices.
Across the region, from Chablis to Mâconnais, the white wines of this vintage are a success, sharing the common trait of being very fruity and often floral. While the Chablis appellation wines display fine, classic balance, driven by minerality and freshness, the Côte d’Or and Côte Chalonnaise wines are fuller-bodied and more opulent. The most meticulous winemakers have produced wines with great ageing potential. Mâconnais wines offer a highly interesting balance of precision, sapidity and seductive aromas.
When it comes to red wines, 2021 obviously doesn’t offer the same levels of concentration or alcohol as previous vintages. The wines, though somewhat heterogeneous, prove particularly delicious, even exciting with their chiselled and precise fruity notes when they are well made. The Côte de Nuits and Côte de Beaune wines impress with their very elegant mouthfeel, combining velvety, silky tannins with a lengthy substance. Their balance, which is less about power than finesse, could set new standards. They are already highly appreciable for their classic character. As for the Côte Chalonnaise, it has also produced some superb wines.
