Alsace

For much of the season, 1988 looked destined for greatness in Alsace, until the elements conspired against it in the final weeks.

Spring was steady if unremarkable, with the vines navigating the vulnerable flowering stage without major incident. 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 1188 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 173mm 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.