Château Fonroque 2013
Weather Conditions During the Growing Season
Winter and early spring were cold with slightly above-average rainfall, resulting in a delayed vegetative cycle. Precipitation was heavy in May and June, both in terms of total water volume and number of rainy days (28 days in the Libourne region over the two months). Heavy rains around flowering (over 120 mm within a week in some places) caused coulure (flower drop) and millerandage (uneven berry set) to an exceptional degree.
Humidity combined with low temperatures, which helped prevent an explosive development of downy mildew despite the high pressure. The summer, although late, was warm and sunny with significant thunderstorm activity in July and early August. These summer conditions allowed for rapid growth and helped catch up on part of the delay in the vegetative cycle. Veraison took time to set in due to the presence of water in the soils. Autumn was wet.
It was necessary to bring forward the harvest on certain plots, as the grapes became very susceptible to grey rot as they approached optimal maturity.
Total vineyard area
Harvest terroir
Grape varieties
Harvest dates
Winemaking
Farming methods
Maturation
Tasting
Harmony is achieved through minimalist winemaking that greatly respects the grapes. In such a vintage, oenological "tweaking" creates a fleeting illusion for a single spring, but quickly robs the wine of the true balance essential for its longevity.
Commentary
