Douro Valley 1981 Vintage Report
For much of the season, 1981 looked destined for greatness in Douro Valley, until the elements conspired against it in the final weeks.
The cycle began with a harmonious flowering period. Warm days (avg 23°C) allowed for an even fruit set, establishing the potential for a generous crop.
Summer turned up the intensity. With 17 days soaring above 35°C, the vines faced a stress test. Yet, thanks to sufficient water reserves, the canopy remained green, protecting the clusters from sunburn.
The finale was fraught with tension. A deluge of 159mm 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.
About Douro Valley
A UNESCO site of dramatic, terraced slopes along the Douro River. Originally famous for Port, it now produces some of Portugal's most concentrated and elegant dry red wines from indigenous grapes.
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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