Château Cartier 2021
Weather Conditions During the Growing Season
2021 began with a milder and wetter-than-average winter. Spring started with mild weather, promoting early budbreak. However, this was followed by sub-freezing temperatures, resulting in extensive frost damage. It wasn’t until late May that favorable weather conditions returned. However, stormy weather between mid-June and mid-July increased the risk of downy mildew. The four weeks of dry weather in late August were crucial for the ripening of the berries. The high levels of tannins and anthocyanins in the skins are promising. The harvest began with the early-ripening Merlot plots. Despite the challenging weather conditions, 2021 produced fresh, well-structured wines with a beautiful aromatic profile.