Maipo Valley 1978 Vintage Report
Ideally sequenced and largely stress-free, 1978 goes down as a textbook vintage for Maipo Valley.
The cycle began with a harmonious flowering period. Warm days (avg 18°C) allowed for an even fruit set, establishing the potential for a generous crop. However, the threat of frost loom large, with 2 distinct cold snaps keeping vineyard managers on high alert during budbreak.
The growing season was solar and generous. Accumulating 1925 Growing Degree Days (GDD), the summer provided consistent warmth that drove steady sugar accumulation. A key factor was the dramatic diurnal shift (13.5°C), ensuring that despite the daytime warmth, acidities remained razor-sharp.
Harvest proceeded under mixed skies, requiring agility to dodge the 21mm of rain that fell sporadically during the picking weeks.
**Style:** Rich, opulent, and structured wines built for the long haul.
About Maipo Valley
Known as the "Bordeaux of South America," the Maipo Valley surrounds Santiago. It is celebrated for its structured, minty Cabernet Sauvignon that thrives in the Mediterranean climate.
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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