A nice but rare 2017 vintage !

Due to multiple climate hazards, the 2017 harvest will be at the lowest national level since 1945, with about 18% less than in 2016 (already a very poor year). Our region was particularly affected, with an episode of spring frost, some “coulure” (flower abortion) on a few grape varieties, a very severe drought all summer and some localized hailstorms. On the department of Vaucluse, about 40% of the production have been lost! The Luberon is doing slightly better with a loss of nearly 30%.

Regarding Château Fontvert, about 20% of the production is missing compared to an average year. If we were spared by frost and hail, we suffered the run-off and the drought. The year is also marked by a historical precocity, with grape harvests beginning on August 23rd. Despite these special circumstances, the quality of the grapes is at the rendezvous, with beautiful maturity and perfect health. Very nice wines are coming up for this 2017 vintage. But these will be rare!