Piedmont 1979 Vintage Report
1979 was a test of resilience for the vignerons of Piedmont, who fought against the elements from budbreak to harvest.
Spring was steady if unremarkable, with the vines navigating the vulnerable flowering stage without major incident. However, the threat of frost loom large, with 6 distinct cold snaps keeping vineyard managers on high alert during budbreak.
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 197mm 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 Piedmont
Often called the "Burgundy of Italy," Piedmont is the realm of the Nebbiolo grape. Its foggy hills produce Barolo and Barbaresco—wines of immense tannic structure, floral aromas, and exceptional longevity.
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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