Tuscany 1981 Vintage Report
For much of the season, 1981 looked destined for greatness in Tuscany, 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 1709 Growing Degree Days (GDD), the summer provided consistent warmth that drove steady sugar accumulation.
The finale was fraught with tension. A deluge of 191mm 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 Tuscany
The heart of Italian wine, Tuscany is the land of Sangiovese. From the classic, savory Chianti Classico to the powerful, long-lived Brunello di Montalcino and the modern Super Tuscans, it combines history with innovation.
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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