Bordeaux 1981 Vintage Report
For much of the season, 1981 looked destined for greatness in Bordeaux, 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.
Summer conditions were balanced, oscillating between warm spells and refreshing intervals that kept the ripening on a steady track.
The finale was fraught with tension. A deluge of 121mm 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 Bordeaux
Bordeaux is the world's most famous wine region, celebrated for its legendary "Right Bank" Merlot and "Left Bank" Cabernet Sauvignon blends. The region's maritime climate, tempered by the Gironde estuary, creates wines of power, structure, and immense aging potential.
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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