Roussillon | 2020 vintage
The weather conditions in Roussillon proved immensely challenging for winegrowers in 2020. An extremely wet January was followed by high temperatures in February and March. This led to early budburst before the return of more rain in April and May. This high level of humidity contributed to a significant outbreak of mildew, never witnessed so early in the season and in such high proportions. Grenache was the most affected variety. July and August were exceptionally hot, with temperatures two degrees higher than the usual average.
As a result, production was highly varied and, more importantly, yields were historically low levels, down by 14% compared to 2019 and as much as 30% compared to 2018! Nonetheless, the wines present a beautiful aromatic potential and a very high qualitative standard.
The white wines are delightful, offering intense aromas and generally maintaining a nice freshness as showcased by the pure and elegant wines of Collioure. Meanwhile, red wines possess rather mellow tannins and elegant finishes. The fine maturities achieved, and the balanced nature of the wines suggest that they have good ageing potential. Last but not least, fortified wines (vins doux naturels) are expressive, with the Muscats de Rivesaltes displaying a fine balance carried by well-integrated levels of acidity.
