Winter 2018/19 was cold and relatively wet with average levels of rainfall throughout the appellation at the end of January-early February, which replenished the water table without any issues. Spring was much the same as March, April, and early May saw similar conditions; sufficient rain combined with below average temperatures, delaying budbreak. However, this did not trigger too much cause for concern. Thankfully this year, there was little to no risk of Spring frost… grazie mille, Madre Terra!
All the foundations were put in place and prepared the vines for the hot summer ahead; mid-May welcomed warmer temperatures, flowering took place in near-perfect conditions. June and July were hot and dry, yet without the extreme heat peaks of previous “solar” vintages as average temperatures remained around a comfortable 20-25°C (only a few days exceeded 30+°C). However, there was a notable storm at the end of July which saw 70mm of rain fall in just two days; the same volume that fell throughout the whole of January and February. Thankfully, the vineyards and vines coped well with the downpour and both fruit set, and véraison followed suit.
August was dry and hot, though critically there were no heatwaves or signs of drought/hydric stress with average temperatures stabilising at 30-35°C (compared to 40+°C in 2017). In addition, the combination of replenished water reserves and diurnal range (hot days and cool nights) allowed for gradual and uniform grape ripening throughout most of the month. Furthermore, the hot and dry weather meant that there was barely any risk of disease pressure, and vineyard management was focused on grape and canopy health.
Moving into September there were some rain showers in the first week, though rather than concerning producers, they were encouraged, as it provided the vines with a booster shot to restrain sugar, rejuvenate the grapes, and delay harvest to reach optimal phenolic and physiological ripeness. Although the season overall was relatively easy, as always, the decision to pick is dependent on vineyard management, location, altitude, and microclimate, as well as producer preference and style. Ultimately, their aim is demonstrate estate terroir and uniqueness to the best of their ability, whilst staying true to the Brunello di Montalcino style.
Do read our full vintage report; full of the key facts about producer holdings and critics thoughts and comments on the vintage, as well as all wines available for purchase.
If you would like to discuss options further, please call me in the office on 01325 776446, where I will be happy to guide you through the vintage.
