As early as bud-break, then again at bloom, this vintage announced its precociousness. Summer was rather cool compared to 1989, 1982, and 1976. August was hot and autumn dry, with cool nights, which constituted ideal ripening conditions.
The wines have all the characteristics of a great vintage, with perfect harmony. They are exceptionally balanced, well-constituted and rich, but also complex, refined and elegant. More concentrated than the 1989 vintage, and with firmer tannins, they can be kept for years to come.
They remain surprisingly young. In September 2013, they are less evolved than the 1999 !