Alsace 1974 Vintage Report
1974 was a test of resilience for the vignerons of Alsace, who fought against the elements from budbreak to harvest.
Early challenges emerged with a disrupted flowering phase. 82mm of rain during the bloom caused significant *coulure* (shatter), naturally lowering yields and concentrating the energy into fewer bunches. However, the threat of frost loom large, with 2 distinct cold snaps keeping vineyard managers on high alert during budbreak.
It was a cool, classical season. Reaching only 948 GDD, the summer never really spiked in temperature, favoring the development of fresh aromatics over sheer power.
The finale was fraught with tension. A deluge of 164mm during the harvest period forced an expedited picking schedule to mitigate botrytis risks, rewarding those who sorted ruthlessly.
**Style:** Lighter-bodied, early-drinking wines that prioritize charm over depth.
About Alsace
Nestled between the Vosges mountains and the Rhine, Alsace is a sun-drenched region famous for aromatic white wines. Its dry Rieslings, spicy Gewürztraminers, and lush Pinot Gris showcase a unique French-German cultural fusion.
Climatic Blueprint
Growing Degree Days (GDD)
Total Rainfall
Sunshine Hours
Diurnal Shift
Frost Days
Average Temperature
Historical Context (10 Years)
Comparison of growing season heat accumulation vs regional average.
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