Beaujolais Nouveau 2016 - Current situation
24.06.2016
Winter was mild and humid, and we could say that Spring and the first days of Summer have followed the same pattern. Unfortunately, on the 13th of April a hail storm hit the areas of Fleurie, Chiroubles and Morgon and some sectors of Beaujolais and Beaujolais villages.
The cool temperatures have been unfavorable towards rapid development of the vines, and so the vines have developed slowly.
Today it is estimated that the flowering has occurred in more than 70% of the vineyard. It is finished in the more precocious areas.
It is still difficult to estimate the future yields but according to a count of small clusters, we are moving towards an almost normal production.
The health status of the grapes varies widely from one sector to another with high pressure from mildew which requires a very meticulous monitoring of the vines and appropriate treatment.
The harvest should theoretically start as of the 20th of September, which is within the normal average of the last thirty years, but is a little late compared to recent years.
The weather over the next few weeks will be decisive, of course, for rapid vine growth and harmonious development of the grapes. The beautiful days of this week make us very enthusiastic.
Frédéric DROUHIN
23rd June 2016