Château Fonroque 2023

2023 is part of the trend of climate change, which is bringing about earlier-than-usual conditions. Winter began with a particularly cold spell, followed by a brief period of mild weather lasting until mid-January. Winter then set in and lasted until mid-March, slightly delaying budbreak, which began in late March. Winter precipitation helped replenish water reserves, and the favorable conditions of this warm early spring accelerated the growing cycle. These warm, humid spring conditions are conducive to the development of downy mildew, which requires a proactive response and biodynamic preparations to contain the disease and limit losses.
Warm temperatures set in at the end of May, allowing flowering to progress rapidly. Rain, still present in mid-June, gave way to a dry spell in early July, promoting the progression of veraison. Ripening began under gloomy skies, but the high temperatures of late summer were highly favorable for berry ripening. Moderate water stress helped maintain a good balance between technological, phenolic, and aromatic ripeness.
2023 remains a generous vintage that once again demonstrates the vineyard’s ability to adapt to extreme weather conditions.