Provence

For much of the season, 2016 looked destined for greatness in Provence, 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.

The growing season was solar and generous. Accumulating 1998 Growing Degree Days (GDD), the summer provided consistent warmth that drove steady sugar accumulation. A key factor was the dramatic diurnal shift (12.2°C), ensuring that despite the daytime warmth, acidities remained razor-sharp.

The finale was fraught with tension. A deluge of 94mm during the harvest period forced an expedited picking schedule to mitigate botrytis risks, rewarding those who sorted ruthlessly.

**Style:** Powerful but variable, with the best wines balancing the heat with careful selection.