Roussillon | 2021 vintage
Frost and drought were key features in Roussillon during this complicated 2021 vintage. The frost episode at the beginning of April, which affected most regions of France, had an impact on yields. The cool temperatures prevailing in April and May slowed the growth of the vines, leaving them unable to make up for lost time and affecting the dates of the harvests. The extremely dry conditions that affected the entire region throughout the summer (with a water deficit of around 50% compared to a normal year) also added to the pressure on yields, which fell well short of a typical year. The only fairly positive point was that disease levels, especially mildew, were lower than usual. As a result, harvests were generally started in mid-August, some ten days later than in 2020. The harvested bunches weighed less than usual and juice yields were also low.
As a result, the wines are characterised by their easy to digest, well-balanced character rather than by their concentration. The white wines are chiselled and lifted by excellent levels of acidity. They display considerable presence on the palate. The red wines are dominated by notes of red fruit and spices, combined with supple, velvety textures. They are easy to digest, harmonious and fresh. And finally, Vins Doux Naturels – fortified sweet wines – are delightful, displaying fine aromatic complexity, with freshness for the Muscats de Rivesaltes and more strength for the Grenaches.
