Rhone Valley 1996 Vintage Report
For much of the season, 1996 looked destined for greatness in Rhone 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.
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 110mm 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 Rhone Valley
Divided into North and South, the Rhône Valley is a powerhouse of Syrah and Grenache. From the peppery, focused reds of Côte-Rôtie to the warm, spicy blends of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, it offers bold wines shaped by the Mistral wind.
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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