Douro Valley 2012 Vintage Report
Defining the 2012 vintage in Douro Valley requires looking beyond the averages, as it was a year of contrasting fortunes and precise timing.
The cycle began with a harmonious flowering period. Warm days (avg 20°C) allowed for an even fruit set, establishing the potential for a generous crop.
Summer turned up the intensity. With 11 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.
Harvest proceeded under mixed skies, requiring agility to dodge the 74mm of rain that fell sporadically during the picking weeks.
**Style:** Classically proportioned wines with good balance and terroir expression.
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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