Provence | 2011 vintage
2011 was a relatively balanced year overall for Provençal appellations, although the geographical extent of the vineyards means that there are some variations. In the reds, Bandol is clearly the pick of the bunch, with genuine structure and ageing potential.
However, weather conditions in this year were difficult for wine growers to manage. Winter was quite wet and spring was rather dry and very sunny - conditions which encourage a swift, early, even start to the growth cycle. Summer was more fickle, alternating between periods of rain and sunshine, a combination which is conducive to good grape ripeness overall. However, in some areas, rain led to uneven ripening and vigilance was the order of the day, especially around Les Baux and, to a lesser extent, Aix-en-Provence.
Red wines are well-structured and some blends will benefit from being laid down. Bandol wines are very good, with some fine results in reds and rosés.
Corsica had a more difficult 2011. Whites are the major success story, in particular the Coteaux du Cap Corse, Vin de Corse Calvi, and Patrimonio appellations, and Muscat wines, which are excellent in this year.
