Loire Valley 1980 Vintage Report
For much of the season, 1980 looked destined for greatness in Loire Valley, 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.
It was a cool, classical season. Reaching only 1048 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 104mm 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 Loire Valley
The "Garden of France" offers a diverse array of styles. From the flinty Sauvignon Blanc of Sancerre to the Cabernet Franc of Chinon and sweet Chenin Blanc, it is a region of elegance.
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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