Mendoza 1986 Vintage Report
Defining the 1986 vintage in Mendoza requires looking beyond the averages, as it was a year of contrasting fortunes and precise timing.
Early challenges emerged with a disrupted flowering phase. 110mm of rain during the bloom caused significant *coulure* (shatter), naturally lowering yields and concentrating the energy into fewer bunches.
The growing season was solar and generous. Accumulating 1910 Growing Degree Days (GDD), the summer provided consistent warmth that drove steady sugar accumulation.
Harvest proceeded under mixed skies, requiring agility to dodge the 59mm of rain that fell sporadically during the picking weeks.
**Style:** Classically proportioned wines with good balance and terroir expression.
About Mendoza
High in the Andean foothills, Mendoza has made Malbec a global superstar. The altitude creates intense sunlight and cool nights, resulting in deep, violet-hued wines with plush tannins and floral aromas.
Climatic Blueprint
Growing Degree Days (GDD)
Total Rainfall
Sunshine Hours
Diurnal Shift
Frost Days
Average Temperature
Historical Context (9 Years)
Comparison of growing season heat accumulation vs regional average.
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