Vintage Reports
 2007 Vintage
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Thanks to early bud burst and optimal autumn weather, German wine grapes had an unusually long growing season in 2007. This year’s harvest was relatively unhurried and took place over several weeks. Grape musts and young wines are showing well, with a fabulous wealth of aromas, high ripeness and extract levels, and a well-integrated, harmonious – yet marked – acidity. After last year’s small harvest, growers are also very satisfied with the size of this year’s crop: in all, estimated to be ca. 10.5 – 11 million hectoliters. A résumé of this year’s harvest in the 13 wine-growing regions, compiled by the German Wine Institute in Mainz, follows.
Vintage 2007 – Regional Conditions
In the Ahr, the Frühburgunder (an early-ripening Pinot Noir) harvest began in late August and ended with the Riesling harvest during the second week of October. Yields – approaching 100 hl/ha – were quite satisfactory, and for this small red wine region, above average in size. The prognosis is for an overall quantity of 54,000 hl. Yields were higher for Portugieser, lower for Früh- and Spätburgunder (Pinot Noir). Must weights ranged mostly between 70 and 100 degrees Oechsle; Spätburgunder, in particular, achieved high must weights. Thanks to ideal weather conditions during the ripening period, the grapes were able to develop high extracts. The ratio of quantity to quality is described as optimal. The crop was healthy and there were no problems with fermentation. Vintage 2007 Weissherbst (rosé) will be bottled shortly to meet the high demand for this category.
In Baden, the harvest ended in mid-October and Baden vintners view 2007 as a very good vintage. The harvest itself and its results are described as a “dream of a harvest.” Equally wonderful were the weather conditions – a golden October – calm autumn weather with cool nights and sunny days that fostered the development of a spectrum of aromas. Wine lovers can look forward to outstanding wines from the 2007 vintage. According to a local wine-growers’ advisor: “Across the board, regardless of variety, the aromas and color of these wines are extraordinary. We haven’t seen the likes of this for quite some time.” Not only were there impressive must weights for Spätburgunder and Riesling, but also specialties, such as Gewürztraminer or Gutedel, showed well. After the first tastings of the young wines, cellar masters are describing the vintage as remarkable for its grandiose wealth of aromas, as well as its perceptible, yet well-integrated, wine acidity. They expect red wines with great depth of color and longevity. Not only is the high quality welcome, but also the quantity harvested – to help alleviate shortages after several small crops. In all, Baden’s 16,000 ha yielded a crop of ca. 1.2 million hl, with an average yield of 85 hl/ha – more than in 2006.
The harvest in Franken started in early September – but growers with patience were rewarded with a sunny October. After a damp summer, very selective harvesting was necessary in order to achieve (ultimately) quite satisfactory results. The first Müller-Thurgau wines of 2007 are aromatic, fresh and fruity; Silvaner, another important varietal in Franken, is showing a fine, elegant note. Only Bacchus grapes had a lower-than-average yield, due to sunburn. About three quarters of the wine musts reached Prädikat wine levels; the average must weight was a remarkably high 87 degrees Oechsle. The region’s 6,000 ha of vineyards yielded somewhat more than half a million hl, with an average yield of 85 hl/ha. This is a seven percent increase in quantity over the year before, which will help replenish low stocks prior to the harvest.
The Hessische Bergstrasse, Germany’s second smallest wine region, is known above all for its Rieslings, but other varieties are at home there, too. At the end of August, for example, the Frühburgunder harvest began. In mid-October, after the Riesling harvest, the last Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes were gathered. Growers willing to postpone the start of their harvest were able to achieve considerably higher qualities, particularly with their Riesling grapes. For the first time, red Riesling was harvested. This rarity is believed to be a forerunner of the white Riesling we know today. Spätburgunder must weights were remarkably high; Grauburgunder (Pinot Gris) required a very selective harvest and yields were disappointingly low. Overall, the crop was a good 35,000 hl, with an average yield of 85 hl/ha – significantly more than in 2006, when quantities barely met supply. For this reason, the first bottlings of 2007 are expected on the market in early November.
The harvest in the Mittelrhein began in mid-September with a few early-ripening varieties, but the main harvest didn’t end until the last week of October. Both quantity and quality are remarkable in this Riesling region. The overall yield is somewhat above the long-term average and considerably above the year before. In all, some 40,000 hl are expected, equal to a yield of 90 hl/ha. Riesling, in particular, benefited from the long growing season, with optimal proportions of sugar (average of 100 degrees Oechsle) to acidity. Red grapes, such as Spätburgunder, were also harvested in a healthy state, at up to 100 degrees Oechsle, with a slightly higher acidity than the year before.
Due to the northerly location of the region and the significance of the late-ripening varietal Riesling, it comes as no surprise that the Mosel growers are among the last to start harvesting. Müller-Thurgau and Elbling (ancient white variety, cultivated primarily in the upper Mosel, along the border with Luxembourg) were picked in the second half of September; the Riesling harvest began in October and – in estates with holdings in steep sites, where harvesting can only be done by hand – lasted the entire month. Ideal weather, with mostly dry, sunny autumn days as well as cool (at times cold) nights, made for a stress-free harvest. These weather conditions enabled growers to harvest their crop at an optimal ripeness level. The 2007 wines from the valleys of the Mosel, Saar, and Ruwer are expected to be particularly rich in minerals and extracts. Steep-site Riesling grapes had considerable time to absorb minerals from the slate soil – ultimately reflected in a wine’s aroma and flavor. This year’s growing season (the time between blossoming and harvest) was particularly long: 100 days is the norm; in 2007: 120 to 150 days. Consumers can expect well-structured wines with straightforward fruit aromas/flavors. Must weights primarily reached Prädikat levels, often 100 degrees Oechsle and above. The region’s nearly 9,000 ha yielded an estimated 925,000 hl and thus, some 85,000 hl more than in 2006.
The Müller-Thurgau harvest in mid-September marked the start of the harvest in the Nahe, ending with the Riesling harvest in the second half of October. Patience was rewarded – particularly for Riesling, which achieved must weights of 90 to 95 degrees Oechsle. Cool October nights slowed down a reduction in acidity in the white wine varietals, and the young wines have a harmonious ratio of ripeness to crispness. Red varietals, too, profited from a later harvest: Spätburgunder grapes reached Oechsle levels well over 80 degrees. In all, a considerable amount of Prädikatswein is expected. Yields: 100 hl/ha – good news for Nahe growers. An estimated 430,00 hl were harvested – a fourth more than in the preceding year.
Earlier than usual – mid-August – some growers in the Pfalz harvested grapes for Federweisser (fermenting grape juice) and the last of the new wine was sold at the end of October. The harvest in the Pfalz usually takes place over months – unlike the stressful and hectic circumstances a year ago. In contrast to the year before, this year’s sunny autumn led to a considerable increase in must weights for both white and red varietals, which in turn, has led to an exceptionally high niveau of red and white wines. Acidity values are higher than in the “esteemed” vintage 2003 – particularly good news for Riesling wines. The harvest was relatively large – 2.5 million hl – and is welcome to meet demand. Quality is also well above average. Growers had time to harvest at the optimal time of ripeness, taking into consideration the various growth periods of different varietals, and could fill their portfolios accordingly. Consumers can expect a great selection of very good wines at all quality levels.
Rheingau growers began harvesting in mid-September, with young wines showing a prominent acidity. A month later, the Rieslings were more harmonious and riper, with higher must weights. Export-oriented wineries that specialize in lusciously sweet wines harvested until the end of October. Already in October, a traditional wine estate achieved a record must weight of more than 300 degrees Oechsle. In some vineyards, grapes are still hanging – in hopes of an Eiswein harvest. Under ideal autumn weather conditions, every grower could harvest exactly what was needed for his/her portfolio. The end of the growing season was particularly favorable for the most important grape variety of the Rheingau, Riesling. It’s said to be a “typical” Riesling vintage. The region’s most important red variety, Spätburgunder, also achieved high ripeness levels at the hand of patient wine-growers. Growers welcome the above-average crop – many a wine on a price list was sold out. The yield was above 80 hl/ha, in all at least a total of 250,000 hl. The excellent quality of vinage 2007 is also reflected by increased demand for bulk wines.
In Germany’s largest wine-growing region, Rheinhessen, this year’s harvest is described as quite good, often compared with the 2002 and 2004 vintages. Many a grower is not sparing with superlatives, such as “wonderful qualities after an ideal autumn” or “sensational vintage.” Grapes were picked throughout September, but it was primarily the grapes harvested in October that achieved the above-average ripeness levels that are the hallmark of this vintage. As such, the growing season for some vines stretched over 140 days rather than the necessary absolute minimum of 100 days. This was optimal for Riesling, which showed its best with an average must weight of 85 degrees Oechsle, as well as for Rheinhessen’s other traditional varietals, e.g. Silvaner (80 degrees Oechsle) and Pinots, which for the most part, were harvested with 90 degrees Oechsle. Warm days and cold nights yielded elegant wines with brisk acidity, fruitiness, and an expressive play of aromas. Harvest yields are estimated at 115 hl/ha, well above average, for a total yield of 2.9 million hl.
Although the vineyards suffered damage due to weather conditions – late frost in May, sunburn in July – the size of the crop in Saale-Unstrut is about that of last year’s good level. About 42,000 hl are expected, or a third more than usual. Since the development of the grapes was ahead of schedule, growers were able to start harvesting in early September. Some estates waited until the second half of October. The crop was healthy and posed no problems for cellar masters. Thanks to the long growing season, the wines are quite aromatic, very fruity, and marked by a lively acidity. With regard to quantity and quality: a good to very good vintage.
In Sachsen, more than two weeks earlier than usual, the harvest began in August, with the region’s early-ripening specialty, the rare Goldriesling (a Riesling x Courtillier Musqué crossing). For the most part, the harvest had ended by mid-October, not least because several rainy days prompted growers to quicken their pace. A primarily healthy crop was brought in, before the damp weather could lead to rot. Ripeness and acidity levels were, respectively, satisfactory and quite good – this bodes particularly well for Gewürztraminer. Overall, the wines of Germany’s smallest wine-growing region – less than 500 ha/1,235 acres – are rarities and regularly sold out, even at relatively high prices. Despite the good quantity harvested in 2007, this situation is not likely to change. Estimated quantity: 20,000 hl.
The harvest in Württemberg – a six-week period of picking that ended in the second half of October – yielded good qualities and a marketable quantity. Yields are estimated to be 110 hl/ha, with an overall quantity of 1.2 to 1.3 million hl. Württemberg’s strength lies in the red wine sector (ca. 75 percent of the harvest), with varieties such as Trollinger, Schwarzriesling (Pinot Meunier), and Lemberger (Blaufränkisch). Yields for Trollinger and Lemberger were slightly above average, whereas yields for early-ripening white varieties, such as Kerner or Müller-Thurgau, fell short of the long-term average. The Riesling crop, however, was larger than last year and will help alleviate supply problems for the region’s most important white varietal. The overall harvesting period was able to be extended, thanks to mild weather, influenced by high pressure. In addition, this fostered both an increase in must weights and the development of ripe aromas – reflected in the first bottlings of white wines of the new vintage.
2006 Vintage
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News from the vineyard 2006....
….what else is new ? 2006 was yet another year with weather extremes and with a harvest that caught almost everyone in Germany by surprise.
The season formerly known as “winter” began late, in the 3rd week of January, lasting through February. A cold and wet March gave way to a slightly warmer than average April, followed by a ”soso“ May. June was very hot and dry ( …the international soccer fans who visited for the World Cup learned about the “other” Germany with very hot days and pleasant, warm nights). July was very hot and even drier to the point drought symptoms started to occur in younger vineyards. A heavy thunderstorm in the 3rd week of July brought relief with generous downpour but also some local hail which destroyed 20% of the grapes and shoots in the Zeltinger Sonnenuhr. July's scorching heat gave way to an unusually cool and wet August. Ironically we always seem to forget vines don't need sizzling heat but rather long daylight hours and at least 20° C ( 70° F ) for photosynthesis to continue. August rain provided relief for the vines though, at the same time, laid groundwork for a fungus- friendly microclimate as soon as warm temperatures would return. The warm September temperatures stayed through October, followed by a very mild November and a, so far, much too warm December, making 2006 another year in the chain of “higher than average” weather records.
Starting with the tail end of the 2006 harvest report, yes, we did leave grapes, very good ones, on the vines in three (!) locations hoping to make Eiswein. As of today there are still some grapes “alive” and, if it freezes very soon, we might still be able to make some good ( though very little ) Eiswein. In the long run, if the climatic change continues, Eiswein may become the ultimate rarity ex Germany and might become extinct at Selbach-Oster…..
Our original plan was to start harvesting on October 16th. In mid-September we moved the date forward to October 9th, and with botrytis arriving on a broad scale we corrected this decision once more, to October 4th. As always, we commenced with “Vorlese”, selectively picking through vineyards most prone to rot, trying to leave only “green”, healthy grapes on the vines. We did this screening or, as our staff called it, “finicky picking”, for about 8 days and were very pleased with the combination of excellent sugars and very good acidity and with beating the rapid spreading of botrytis ( or so we thought ). Still, the development in the vineyards ( quickly increasing sugars because of the sunny, warm days in addition to botrytis “exploding” almost everywhere ) seemed to outpace us and we started regular harvest, picking selectively but harvesting the entire vineyard. Small pockets of gray rot had to be eliminated but hand harvesting with our experienced crew made this a manageable challenge. The order was out that, if not sure by visual selection, do smell or taste! This resulted in many a sticky, brown face at the end of the day….Volatile acidity was not much of an issue, thanks to well drained rocky soil and good canopy management during the summer. Because the weather played in tune, new botrytis infections were almost entirely benign ones which, over time, caused berries and entire bunches to shrivel and dehydrate, presenting us with great “raw material” to make rich Auslese, BA, TBA wines. Compared with “super ripe” 2003, '06 brought much better acidity levels at even higher Oechsle/Brix levels than `03! Compared to botrytis vintages of the past 5 decades, 2006 has much better acidity levels and higher sugar readings than 1989 or 1976 or 1959!
But it wasn't an easy harvest! A great deal of time was spent on selections. Not only selecting noble rot from gray rot but also trying to select “green”, that is, golden, berries with little or ( extremely challenging ) no botrytis to make lighter “regular” wines and ”trocken / halbtrocken” style wines.
A week into the harvest we were still hopeful we'd harvest a small but not a dramatically short crop. Maybe it was wishful thinking or not wanting to “read” the initial results but it took a long while to realize we were in fact dealing with a very small, short, crop. It wasn't only the low “tonnage” itself but, after filling a press with grapes, very little juice was extracted .
As October progressed, the concentration process continued, botrytis reigned supreme and even the “clean” vineyards we had carefully picked through a week or 10 days before were quickly displaying deep golden rsp. copper coloured grapes with fissures and dents, a view of text book botrytis! Towards the end, one could watch the quantity literally shrink by the day while, at the same time, the must weights skyrocketed. We finished picking on Saturday, October 28th.
Which vintage to compare 2006 with? The closest may be 1976 though that was a much different, very hot and even drier year with a different expression of botrytis.
Even though it's a difficult comparison, 2006 could be described as a “1976 on steroids” with 2006 having the advantage of much better acidity plus higher ripeness while 1976 may have the edge with an “easier” ( only noble! ) botrytis.
Our “least” must weight came in at Spaetlese level whereby the majority of grapes weighed in at big Auslese and above(!) readings. Quick and gentle processing of the fruit was crucial this year and so were cool cellar temperatures rsp. the ability to control the fermentation. Fermentation itself did not create problems, not even with the few dry wines we managed to make. You can expect some truly excellent “sweet” wines though we can assure you we are still following our credo of the classic, balanced, delicate style of Mosel Riesling, despite the inherent richness of 2006 as a vintage.
Based on the first rounds of tasting I suspect the best 2006 wines will reach “cult” status and overall very limited availabilities will worsen the already tight supply situation on the “Riesling front”. We hope 2007 may bring a bountiful harvest.…
- Special thanks to Johannes Selbach of Selbach-Oster for this report.
2005 Vintage
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An otherwise relatively warm and mild winter made a brief appearance in February 2005, the only month with temperatures below the long term average. It is to be noted, that the winter 2004/2005 was - again - drier than normal. Hence, no floods, a special treat which was thankfully noted by all those living along Rhein and Mosel!
March was relatively warm and dry. April, May and June brought the usual central European weather mix but the overall temperature was higher and the precipitation lower than average.
Budbreak occurred relatively early in April and flowering, too, started a few days earlier than normal but stretched for a longer period because of greater temperature fluctuations in the first half of June, leading to problems of poor pollination in vineyards which had started flowering early.
Mid June through end of July brought relatively “normal” weather patterns in Germany with no extremes though slightly higher than average temperatures in some regions (Mosel, Ahr, Mittelrhein) resp. temperatures well within the long term average in others (Nahe, Rheinhessen, Pfalz). The first two and a half weeks of August were noticeably cooler and wetter than normal, leading to mixed feelings and moderate expectations for the harvest.
As a whole, however, 2005 saw - again - less than the normal annual amount of rain. Where irrigation was possible, more producers were making use of it, though irrigation is still the exception to the rule and only a fraction of German growers are able to do it. Of all regions, the Pfalz had the most extreme lack of precipitation and experienced dry conditions similar to those of 2003!
Regional rainfall by means of thunderstorms made a significant regional and often only local difference. In the vineyards, pressure from various pests or fungi was moderate in 2005, making for a relatively uncomplicated growing season.
From the last week of August through the end of October, Germany experienced a unique streak of beautiful summer weather with almost ideal growing and ripening conditions which elevated the quality of the vintage to a level nobody had anticipated.
Substantial rainfall occurred in the week of September 10th and the resulting moisture spurred the growth of fungi, most prominently, botrytis.
From here, the regions started to take different developments: Areas with more earlier ripening grape varieties and with deeper, less well drained soils, were confronted with quickly spreading rot, not all of it noble. This necessitated additional work in the vineyards, dropping infected fruit for those waiting for top quality, resp. earlier harvesting for others.
Well drained, more rocky soils benefited from the much slower, steady development of noble rot. This slow growth of botrytis and a relatively high proportion of healthy grapes and healthy, green foliage, made for a significant difference to other vintages with heavy botrytis infections, like 1989 or 1976.
Nevertheless, some areas, particularly in the Pfalz, were confronted with serious challenges by grey rot after the September rains which required dropping of fruit before and diligent selections during the harvest. The very dry October with it's dehydrating effect slowed down the development of botrytis. It also lowered yields .
Harvest:
Interestingly, most of the “Neuzüchtungen” like Mueller-Thurgau et al, the “work horses” for the commercial wines, all picked in September, were not much affected . Yields were lower than in 2004, prices higher. The Pinot family ( Blanc, Gris and Noir ) fared surprisingly well. It was Riesling, picked from early October, which was most affected by the rot!
The bulk of the 2005 German harvest had been brought in by the third week of October. The traditionally late “northern” regions started picking Riesling in the 2nd week to mid-October.
After the first days of harvesting it became obvious the 2005 harvest was much smaller than anticipated. Prices for grapes and juice on the open market increased quickly during the first days and leapt up further as the full extent of the shortage for QbA became evident.
The vast majority of the grapes across Germany qualified for QmP wines. The demand for QbA, despite downgrading high grade “Praedikat” grapes and juice, could not be filled during the harvest business with grapes and juice.
Estimates for the 2005 German harvest are for 8.947 million hectolitres (1 hectolitre equals 100 liters or 11.11 cases). This is 12 % lower than 2004.
The Mosel-Saar-Ruwer yielded 825,000.00 hectolitres which is 16 % down from 2004.
General observations and a look into the future:
The structural changes in the German wine industry are continuing.
The red wine boom has reached a saturation. With 32% of the total German vineyard surface planted with red grapes, reds seem to have reached their zenith.
The quality of German wines in general, spearheaded by the leading estates, is continuing to improve and is distinctly higher today than two decades ago.
Labelling and marketing have made significant progress to a more modern, contemporary approach for the commercial wines while maintaining regional identity and top quality by smaller, artisanal, more specialised players, mainly in the estate wine segment.
Take a seemingly changing climate ( only good vintages since 1988 ) and consumption patterns (from drinking habits to the culinary revolution), quality German wines are well positioned for the future. This seems especially valid for the true speciality: delicate versions of quality Riesling with distinct varietal and regional character which seem to continue to gain popularity in a world full of ever bigger, higher alcohol wines of (exchangeable) “international” taste profile and origin.
- Special thanks to Johannes Selbach of Selbach-Oster for this report.
2004 Vintage
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The 2004 harvest was completed on 21st November, except for those grapes remaining for Eiswein, and, nobody will believe us, but we can once again mark up a fine vintage, albeit not as great as the “best-ever” quality of the 2003 crop, but in line with both the 2001 and 2002 highly-rated qualities.
In fact, all vintage qualities in Germany have been better than average since the 1988 crop. Improved technology in the vineyards and cellars, a better understanding of the vines, careful pruning and spraying, intensified foliage
management, yield restriction and global warming contribute to this achievement. Looking back in history, there had been disastrous vintages, such as 1956, according to Stephan Studert (vintage 1923 himself) and more recently, 1965, 1968 and 1980 join that miserable collection, with 1972 & 1978 following close behind.
Although this year’s summer in Germany was disappointing, the total weather picture was fine for the vines. One can however assume that the vintners would not have coped with the weather, had this happened a generation ago. The vineyards suffered no winter damage, and the bud break began successfully mid-April. Heavy rainfall followed mid-May, which restored ground reserves after the dry start to the year, but late May was too cool with temperatures down to 2C (35F) on 24th May. Weather conditions in June improved, and the flowering was completed successfully, and on time by the end of June to give a long growth & ripening period. Unsettled weather then followed in July & August, both months being too cool and too wet, which slowed down the veraison. Some serious hail damage, especially 7/8th July in the Freiburg (Markgräflerland) area of Baden occurred, which devastated 1800 hectares (4500 acres), and in theory destroyed 1 million cases of wine! Luckily, the Kaiserstuhl area (e.g. estate Bercher) remained unscathed. Serious hail damage also occurred 23rd July in Serrig (Saar), and Piesport also suffered minor hail damage.
The weather improved dramatically on 30th August, and summer temperatures up to 28C (77F) held on until 6th October. Harvesting of early varietals, such as Müller-Thurgau, commenced 23rd September. The estates delayed harvesting of Riesling, and it was thus most unusual for both Rhine and Mosel vintners to commence picking of Riesling together on 18th October. However, the grapes were perfectly healthy, and 7 intermittent rainy days in October brought further delays, but also further ripening. Unusually warm nights and daytime temperatures up to 22C (67F) were recorded 21-24th October. During those particular days, even well-equipped estates had a hard time to keep fermentation cool. The weather remained dry and cool 31st October – 15th November, apart from snowfall (!) 10th November, and the harvesting was completed under near-ideal cool conditions. There were reports of rotting in some vineyards which necessitated selective picking, either caused by hail damage or by missing a spraying slot. Experts regard 100 days minimum from flowering to harvesting to optimize the aromas and acidity pH levels. This was easily achieved by mid-October, and the Dr Thanisch (Müller- Burggraef) estate did not even finish picking until 21st November!
The healthy state of the grapes did not lead to wide-spread Botrytis, so that no BA or TBA were selected, especially as picking was so late, and only small quantities of Riesling Auslese will be released in the Rhine regions. The average Oechsle readings are in fact much higher than first anticipated, thanks to the weather improvement. The extremely low yields in 2003 have now been compensated, and the cellars have been filled with good quantities of fine Kabinett wines, and quantities of Spätlese similar to 2001, if not more, especially in the Saar region. At the estates, some of the weaker Kabinetts will again be down-graded and chaptalized, especially pinot noir and other red varietals, or Riesling to produce the dry-tasting Classic designation.
The total crop in Germany will be slightly higher than 2002 (10.2 million hl), and nearly 30% more than the small-sized vintage 2003.
- Special thanks to Derek Vinnicombe, Vinnicombe GmbH for this report.
2003 Vintage
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A dream comes true? Word has already spread through the grapevine that the quality of the 2003 vintage is pointing towards a “bestever” harvest in Germany. Apart from grapes for Eiswein production, picking ended 5th November, and we can now make first assessments. Without doubt, the 2003 vintage hits the top
of the ladder, and we can compare with the greatest past vintages, such as 1976, 1971, 1959 & 1953. Better vinification understanding, more gentle production methods, low yields and the use of modern technology will in fact improve the potential of the 2003 beyond its former peers. Even Stephan Studert sr (vintage 1923 himself!) from Wehlen cannot recall such outstanding results, and he has vivid memories of 1959, 1953 and 1949! The overall picture is similar in all regions, which enhances the greatness, whereby the Rheingau has excelled with amazing quantities of Riesling TBA. The total crop in Germany will be similar in size to 2001 (9 million hl) and 1976 (8.6 million hl.). More details below, but first, the general pattern of weather this year:
The winter months were favourable, and March was very dry with temperatures of up to 15C (56F) from 21st onwards, and a record 200 hours of sunshine. The almond trees were in full blossom by 26th, and the sap was already rising in the vines. Cold weather returned 8th April with -6C (22F), but was soon replaced by warm & sunny weather. June & July were the hottest and driest months since 50 years (similar to 1953). Hardly surprising, the flowering was concluded successfully early in June, 3 weeks ahead of a good year. Apart from some rainfall 21/22nd July and 17/18th August, the hot weather prevailed with tropical temperatures of 36-38C (90-93F). The Rhine reached its lowest-ever recorded level, vegetation was completely scorched dry, and the forests took on autumnal colours! The heat-wave ended 27th August, and was followed by the much-needed rainfall, but a fine, dry Indian summer arrived 13th September, in time for the early pickings. During the summer, German vineyards had seen more than twice their average of sunshine hours. Experts state an ideal requirement of 1300 hours of sunshine during the growth period of the vines. We exceeded this figure in August! The deeply-rooted vines suffered less from the lack of moisture, but losses occurred with sunburn on the steep, blisteringly hot slopes where the sunshine unleashed its full force. It was not possible to work in the vineyards during the afternoon hours! Despite the high temperatures, serious widespread hail damage was not reported. The harvest commenced 15th September under ideal conditions. The grapes were fully-ripened and very healthy, and, unusual for Germany, one had to avoid harvesting during the hot afternoon hours. Red varietals, such as Dornfelder, were averaging over 80 Oechsle (Oe)! However, the early-ripening varietals did lack juice, suffering lower than average yields. Riesling profited most from the rainfall early September and also 7th October. Ideal stable & cooler weather conditions then continued throughout October. To gain optimal ripeness, a growth period for the grapes of 100 days is required. This year Riesling easily exceeded 120 days, marking yet another omen for a monumental quality.
Although regarded as the original cool-climate vineyards, global warming seems to have affected German viticulture. From exact climatic records over the past 100 years, 9 of the 13 warmest years have been between 1990-2003. However, we cannot assume that 2003 will be repeated again in the coming 25 years.
In order to demonstrate the higher benchmark set by the estates, and the outstanding quality of the 2003 vintage, these are the official minimum Oechsle (Brix) requirements for Riesling, which take the climatic and regional differences into consideration:
Riesling
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Rhine
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Rheingau
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Mosel
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Spätlese
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85 (20.4)
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85 (20.4)
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80 (19.3)
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Auslese
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92 (22)
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95(22.6)
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88 (21.1)
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BA
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120 (28)
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125 (29.1)
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110 (25.9)
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TBA
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150 (34.3)
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50 (34.3)
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150 (34.3)
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RHEINHESSEN: The estates began with the Riesling harvest early October. Franz Karl Schmitt in Nierstein was the first estate ever in Rheinhessen to produce a Riesling TBA, back in 1900, and has repeated in 2003! He selected Riesling berries at 230 Oe with 8 pickers over 6 days in the Oelberg site, and also a Riesling BA at 140 Oe from the Hipping vineyard. His minimum Oe reading for Riesling was 95, with Auslese in Pettenthal between 105-115 Oe. The total crop was however 30% less than 2002, but the quality can be regarded as their best-ever recorded result. Also in Nierstein, Albrecht Schneider completed the picking 25th October, and reports Riesling from 90 to 108 Oe. The Paterberg Riesling weighedin on 13th October at 90 Oe; a powerful Spätlese, which will be released as Kabinett! Good quantities of Riesling Spätlese and Auslese have been produced in the Hipping, Oelberg & Orbel sites, but the very healthy state of the berries prohibited the selection of BA or TBA. The Gewürztraminer (Oelberg) was pressed at 110 Oe, almost too high as successor to the previous dry Spätlese. The total crop is about 20% less than 2002, corresponding to 2 bottles per vine. Jochen Seebrich reports similar Riesling results, from 88 Oe upwards, Gewürztraminer Spaetlese at 104 (Oelberg), Scheurebe at 90 (Oelberg). Seeing that the grapes were so ripe, they have not planned Riesling Eiswein this year. Frank Heyden, the young winemaker at Dr. Heyden in Oppenheim, picked their first Riesling at 99 Oe, and all other pickings were at 100 Oe and above in the Sackträger site! A Riesling BA was selected at 140 Oe and a Riesling TBA at 240 Oe, with a total crop 30% less than 2002. Frank waited with the main pickings of Riesling until 9th October, thinking that the green foliage and September rainfall would transport more minerals into the berries. Markus Machmer in Bechtheim harvested his Gewürztraminer in the Stein vineyard at 105 Oe, which will be declassified to Spätlese; Kerner was harvested at 105 Oe, and Ortega at 110 Oe. Lothar Schäfer in Mettenheim has managed to produce Spaetburgunder (Pinot noir) Auslese at 111 Oe. Harald & Horst Bretz in Bechtolsheim completed the main harvest on 25th October and the qualities have even surpassed their successful 2002 results. Normal pickings of their red Dornfelder exceeded 90 Oe and we can expect powerful reds from this estate next year (Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, St.Laurent and Regent). 12 pickers selected Huxelrebe grapes 20-23rd October, and the resulting 170 Oe as TBA excelled all expectations. TBA has also been produced from Ortega at 170 Oe, and BA from both varietals, as well as from Siegerrebe from their vineyards surrounding the Petersberg hillside. Riesling, Silvaner and Pinot Noir grapes are now hanging to produce Eisweins. Arno Schales in Dalsheim also reports excellent results during the harvest 19th September - 16th October, with Siegerrebe Spaetlese &
Auslese up to 115 Oe, and also powerful Spaetlese from fully-ripened and healthy Chardonnay and pinot varietals; Gewürztraminer Spätlese was harvested at 100-107 Oe, Scheurebe at 90, and Riesling pickings between 90-150 Oe (Spätlese, Auslese & BA), and a TBA was selected from Huxelrebe. They will also be trying to make Riesling Eiswein. The Sander estate in Dexheim has produced Huxelrebe BA from 2- 6th October at 127 Oe from their Doktor site, but berries were too healthy to select a TBA. Silvaner grapes are again hanging for Eiswein.
PFALZ: the Fitz-Ritter estate in Bad Dürkheim has achieved outstanding results with Chardonnay at 103 Oe; Gewürztraminer grapes were harvested 1st October at 106 Oe for a powerful Spätlese. Riesling Kabinett (Hochbenn) at 91, and Riesling Spätlese with 98 Oe (Abstfronhof) and 95 Oe (Ungsteiner Herrenberg). Riesling Auslese at 105 Oe was also produced, but no BA because of the healthy state of the berries. In fact, fullyripened & healthy Rieslaner grapes are still hanging today, hoping for a BA later in November; and Riesling is stilling hanging in the Hochbenn site for Eiswein production.
NAHE: At the Paul Anheuser estate, Dorothee & Peter Anheuser have harvested their best-ever crop over the past 380 years of the estate's history with a Riesling TBA at 241 Oe in the Kreuznacher Hinkelstein site, Riesling BA being also selected at about 145 Oe. Normal pickings of Riesling were from 95 to 105 Oe in their Kreuznach sites, and on the upper reaches of the Nahe (Schlossböckelheim), the Anheusers harvested Spaetlese at 95 in the Felsenberg and Kabinett at 90 in the Königsfels site. Pinot varietals have also produced good readings (pinot blanc at 100 Oe). The total crop is similar in size to 2002, which however suffered losses due to windy weather conditions during that harvest.
RHEINGAU: At Schloss Schönborn, the estate looks back over 654 years in family possession of Graf von Schönborn, and the 2003 vintage has set new records! With up to 20% noble mould in best sites, it was possible to select substantial quantities of TBA from 200 Oe upwards. The highest reading was
pressed at 290 Oe from the Erbacher Marcobrunn. Normal pickings 20th October were at 106 Oe in their monopole Hattenheimer Pfaffenberg site, and musts with 106 Oe in the Marcobrunn, 102 Oe in the Nussbrunnen had already been pressed. The steep slopes in Rüdesheim had suffered somewhat under the drought conditions, and normal pickings from 90-98 Oe were achieved in the Berg Schlossberg, and 87-90 Oe in the Berg Rottland sites. The Langwerth von Simmern estate is not so old, but 539 years in family possession have resulted in considerable experience, and the vintage 2003 will rank as a best-ever crop. Harvesting was from 15th September until 31st October, and the 35 pickers (traditionally always the same number) achieved monumental results. The vineyards, all situated in the heart of the Rheingau, and not in Rüdesheim, did also not suffer under the drought conditions. Riesling was harvested at 90 Oe and above, and, apart from Spätlese and Auslese, a BA was selected in the Erbacher Marcobrunn at 180 Oe and TBA qualities from 200 to 295 Oe in the Marcobrunn and Rauenthaler Baiken sites. Nearby to the Marcobrunn, the great Hattenheimer Mannberg has excelled with a blue capsule Spätlese quality for general release (the first since 1976!), as well as a great dry FIRST GROWTH quality for release September 2004. Outstanding results have been recorded at other leading Rheingau estates, and at the Prinz von Hessen estate, Riesling TBA from the Johannisberger Klaus site has been pressed from 180 to 232 Oe. A normal picking on 8th October resulted in 93 Oe. At the State Domain (Kloster Eberbach), we can expect Riesling Kabinett, Spätlese and rare Auslese from their monopole Steinberger vineyard. Klaus Molitor in Hattenheim was also able to select the first Riesling TBA (158 Oe) in the family's history. Normal pickings of Riesling were up to 105 Oe, and his red pinot noir up to 110 Oe.
MOSEL-SAAR-RUWER: Gerhard & Gerd Studert (Studert-Prüm) in Wehlen harvested from 6-27th October. The first pressing was at 88 Oe, but then all normal pickings were from 90 - 107 Oe. More selective picking in the Sonnenuhr has resulted in ** Auslese at 110-120 Oe and *** Auslese at 130 Oe. A BA was selected from the Wehlener Sonnenuhr at 140 Oe, and TBA from 160 to 230 Oe. No grapes have been left for Eiswein. The total crop is however about 20% less than 2002. At the Dr.H.Thanisch estate (Müller-Burggraef), similar readings are reported for the main crop in their Brauneberg, Bernkastel, Graach and Wehlen sites. In 1921, they produced that legendary Berncasteler Doctor TBA, the first estate on the Mosel to produce a TBA wine, and have also repeated in 2003 with 205 Oe! A Riesling BA has also been produced, and indeed, in their Doctor site, nothing has been picked below 90 Oe (a 2003 Doctor Kabinett will thus not be available). The pinot noir grapes were picked at readings up to 105 Oe. Stefan Bollig (Bollig-Lehnert) has harvested 20% less than 2002, but that vintage was 30% higher than 2001, his smallest crop ever. The Trittenheimer Altärchen and Dhroner Hofberg suffered some losses due to very unusual hail damage on 30th May, just before the flowering. Even normal pickings on 15th October in the Piesporter Goldtröpfchen were from 95-102 Oe, and except for Riesling left for Eiswein, the harvest was completed 28th October. The 2003 qualities will probably rank as best-ever at this estate, but the grapes were generally too healthy to select a BA. Karin Fischer, Dr Fischer in Ockfen (Saar), harvested from 13th October - 5th November, and reports readings from 86 Oe upwards in her Ockfen and Wawern sites, and they had already picked some fine Auslese at 95 Oe in the Ockfener Bockstein by 16th October. In comparison to 2000, the highest reading was then only 82 Oe! Although the grapes were too healthy for selecting BA, the 2003 has also achieved best-ever distinction. The previous Auslese was released in 1999 at this estate. The yields are generally very low, but the 2003 crop will be slightly larger than the successful 2002 vintage. In great vintages, the Saar wines are renowned for their fantastic, almost
immortal maturing potential. Excitement is growing, that the 2003 quality will excel all expectations! Two sections of the Bockstein vineyard near to the house have been selected for Eiswein. The Vereinigte Hospitien estate finished picking on 24th October, and reports similar readings. In their Scharzhofberger (Saar) site, gold capsule Auslese has also been selected, but here to, the grapes were too healthy for selecting BA or TBA, as also in their Piesporter vineyards. All other wine regions in Germany have also experienced excellent results, albeit with lower than average yields. Due to the varying microclimates in the different German wine regions, it can rarely be seen that all regions
can boast such excellent results. Vintage 2003 is one rare exception, and this is yet another indication that the new vintage will achieve historical importance!
- Special thanks to Derek Vinnicombe, Vinnicombe GmbH for this report.
Producers throughout Germany's 13 wine-growing regions ended the 2002 harvest on a high note, as an unusually early freeze in the first half of December answered hopes for the unctuous rarity, Eiswein.
"An abundance of Eiswein caps off another remarkable vintage," said Armin Göring, director of the German Wine Institute. "Though lack of botrytis in 2002 limited production of other dessert wines, the clean, healthy condition of the grapes, coupled with the very early frost provided perfect circumstances for Eiswein production."
According to the German Wine Growers' Association in Bonn, Germany, the total harvest is estimated to be 10.8 million hectoliters, some 7 percent greater than the ten-year average (10.1 million hl) and an increase of 19 percent over the small 2001 crop. Although wet weather in October dampened the outlook for yet another "vintage of the century," growers have good reason to be pleased with the excellent quality of the vintage. Solid wines of every quality level will be available, and the new wines sampled thus far show a fine, mouth-filling fruitiness and clean varietal character.
The Growing Season
Weather conditions during 2002 were quite contrary. In most regions, the winter months passed without incident or problems, with the exception of some frost damage in low-lying sites, primarily in the Franken, Pfalz and Rheinhessen regions and to a lesser extent in Baden and Württemberg. Sufficient precipitation provided a good water supply by the start of vegetation, and temperatures were relatively mild as early as mid-February and well above average in March. In early April, however, the mercury fell to below freezing and frost damage ensued. Bud burst was a few days earlier than usual, despite frequent periods of rain.
After a damp start in May, the grapes developed very quickly. Day- and night-time temperatures were pleasant to very warm in June, and led to an early blossoming-a bit slow at the start, but it then proceeded rapidly and concluded within just a few days. In all, fruit set was good and yielded loose clusters of berries that continued to develop quickly. At the same time, there were symptoms of stress in sites with shallow soils, where the warmth of late spring and early summer had sapped water supplies, supplies that were more than replenished by rainfall in July. Late July and early August was stormy, sometimes accompanied by hail, followed by a dry, sunny phase during which some grapes suffered sunburn. Ripening of the berries was early, as was leaf discoloration of red varieties. Must weights increased quickly and by mid-September, the harvest of early-ripening varieties was well underway.
The Harvest
The first half of the harvest took place at a good pace and under good weather conditions with warm days, cool nights and steady, easterly winds that helped alleviate potential fungus problems. The "Indian Summer" did not last, however, and from mid-October onward the weather was variable, and often wet, causing problems for estates that still faced their main harvest of Riesling and other late-ripening varieties. The main harvest lasted well into November and required a great deal of patience and flexibility to wait for dry periods in which to gather grapes. Fortunately, grapes remained healthy and continued to ripen, due primarily to the overall excellent growing season and to quality-oriented viticultural measures undertaken, such as stringent pruning and selective harvesting. Nevertheless, the weather during the second half of the main harvest did not suffice to bring about the highest hopes for yet another "vintage of the century." Overall, must weights were above average and the vintage 2002 provides excellent supplies of very good quality QbA through Spätlese wines.
Following the main harvest, many growers left select portions of the vineyards unpicked in hopes of producing Eiswein. Regulations for Eiswein production in Germany are strict, requiring grapes to freeze on the vine and be picked and crushed while frozen. Normally, the consistent freezing temperatures necessary do not occur in Germany until very late in December or even in early January. And, the longer the grapes are left hanging, the greater the losses to various forms of rot, birds or other foraging animals.
"Eiswein is always a gamble," said Carol Sullivan, executive director of the German Wine Information Bureau, "but in 2002 the payoff is greater and more wide-spread."
In early December, a hard frost enabled Eiswein production throughout Germany's 13 wine-growing regions. Due to the healthy condition of the grapes the quantities of Eiswein production were significantly higher than usual.
Market Demand
This news about the quality and quantity of the 2002 vintage is welcomed by German wine importers in this country. U. S. consumer demand and recognition for high quality German Riesling wines has increased significantly in the past few years; a fact that was confirmed by 2002 research conducted by the German Wine Institute and the French trade group CFCE. The research revealed that Riesling was second only to Chardonnay amongst U.S. consumers most recent white wine consumption. The already heightened awareness and interest in Riesling has been even further enhanced by the crescendo of acclaim received by the 2001 vintage wines currently on the market and selling quickly.
"In light of the ongoing renaissance for high-quality German wines at home and abroad," said Göring, "the marketing prospects for the 2002 vintage are excellent."
- Information from the German Wine Information Bureau.
The past few winters have been relatively mild in Germany, with little or no frost damage to the vines. January through April 2001 was extremely wet, which retarded initial development somewhat, but provided water reserves in the soil that ultimately fostered growth. Bud burst took place between mid-April and early May, followed by a period of warmth that promoted rapid growth. Unseasonably cool temperatures in June slightly delayed and/or prolonged the flowering in most regions, yet fruit set was good and coulure was limited. Summer was marked by intervals of hot and humid, as well as hot and dry weather. The latter, combined with timely plant protection measures, helped alleviate problems with pests and fungal diseases. Bunch pruning and negative selection prior to the final ripening period were necessary nearly everywhere to control yields.
In all, harvest prospects were very good at the end of August. Just days later, however, the weather abruptly turned cool and wet and remained so throughout September, prompting fears and reminders of the difficult 2000 vintage when wet weather posed considerable challenges in the vineyard. Fortunately, the weather turned and October was blessed with mild temperatures and plenty of sunshine, leading to the overall excellent outcome of vintage 2001. With the exception of some Eiswein optimists, German winegrowers picked the last of their grapes during the first half of November.
Quantity and Quality
The 2001 wine harvest in most European countries was below average in size and Germany was no exception. The current estimate stands at 9 million hectoliters, approximately 12 percent less than the latest 10-year average (10,246,693 hl). And, although statistics regarding the specific quality (ripeness) levels are not yet available, the German Wine-Growers' Association, Bonn, estimates that the majority of this year's harvest was ripe enough to qualify as high-level Kabinett wine of very solid quality. It is clear that Riesling and other late-ripening varieties yielded a high proportion of Prädikat wines, including rarities such as Trockenbeerenauslese and Eiswein. Winegrowers have reported must weights of 185° Oechsle for a Trockenbeerenauslese in late October in the Middle Mosel, and in the Nahe on November 11 Eiswein was harvested at 140° Oechsle, for example.
Quality Profitability
The advent of the dry varietal wines "Classic" and "Selection" in 2000 has helped heighten quality-consciousness among German winegrowers and producers alike. Growers are restricting yields to achieve the higher starting must weights required for both categories. Traditionally, growers under contract with commercial wineries and members of cooperatives have been paid according to the quantity and ripeness of the grapes delivered. Increasingly, now, the overall condition or health of the crop is factored in and payments are adjusted accordingly with premiums or penalties that have fostered quality-oriented vineyard management. Registered, contractual agreements between growers and wineries are expected to increase, not least because they offer winegrowers a viable alternative to the unprofitable bulk wine market. Working with a reliable supply of grapes grown according to quality-oriented specifications enables producers to offer their customers wines of better quality, with a consistent profile.
Of the 200 wine estates, cooperatives and commercial wineries that produced and marketed "Classic" wines during the launch period, some 90 percent intend to maintain or increase production volume, according to a recent survey conducted by the Deutsches Weininstitut, Mainz. Institute Director Armin Göring estimates that some 15 million liters of 2001 "Classic" wines will be produced in the state of Rheinland-Pfalz (encompasses regions of Ahr, Mittelrhein, Mosel-Saar-Ruwer, Nahe, Rheinhessen and Pfalz), and an additional five to six million liters in Baden and Württemberg, equaling well over two million cases of "Classic" wines.
- Information from the German Wine Information Bureau.
2000 Vintage
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“Vintage 2000 - the millenium vintage”…could have been the header of this report this year. The fact of our news is that the vintage was indeed good but far from millenium stardom…. If there would have been a halftime record, 2000 would have indeed beaten all of it's illustrous predecessors in the chain of ripe to superripe vintages which started in 1988. From an early outbreak of a very warm spring in March through heatwaves in April and May and perfect growing conditions in June, the expectations were flying high. Higher in fact than in the preceding years and with a certain disbelief from our side in what incredible progress we were witnessing in the vineyards until the end of June.
Then came July and with it a drastic change in the weather patterns as if St.Peter had slammed the brakes and put everything in reverse: July 2000 was the coolest and wettest July we can remember and the press reports it as the coolest and wettest since accurate weather statistics exist in Germany. The growth advantage ( which was three weeks in late June ) had melted down to ten days by early August. Still the vineyards were ahead and lead everyone in Germany to expect a very early and potentially outstanding harvest. August though, as well as September, brought a mixed bag of good and bad weather and there was hardly a week without rain. To round out the picture, most of October and all of November weren't much different ( and it's still the same in December ).
What this meant for us “spoiled” producers who had been blessed with more or less good to excellent conditions for an unprecedented 12 vintages in a row, was a number of unpleasant surprises in the vineyards by means of various kinds of fungi from downy mildew ( peronospora ) to powdery mildew ( oidium ) to botrytis, some in it's noble and much in it's not-so-noble form.
After we had already trimmed fruit in late July, we went through some of our best vineyards in late August/early September for another round of green harvesting and for taking out grapes that were showing signs of early rot. By then, the grapes still looked very good and very promising. The rollercoaster of cold & wet days interspersed with a few sunny days lasted through September and the first half of October. A stable ( and short ) “Indian summer” did not arrive until after the 14th of October. By then, the humidity had produced too good a breeding ground for any sort of fungus and much of the foliage and many grapes had been severely damaged by a combination peronospora /downy mildew and botrytis.
Given all the weather related resp. humidity related problems, our dry, rocky slate slopes made us the one-eyed amongst the blind, i.e. the damage was there but it would have been much worse in deep, heavy soils.
- Special thanks to Johannes Selbach of Selbach-Oster for this report.
….the last vintage of this century, of this millenium…-….a vintage of superlatives ?
No, but it is certainly another excellent one which neatly continues the unprecedented parade of fine vintages Germany has enjoyed since 1988.
As regards the climate, 1999 certainly was a record year. German weather statistics show that 1999 had the highest average temperature of any vegetation period over the last fifty years. It was not a year of extremes but of a rather friendly, fairly dry weather though this differed significantly between the regions. Interestingly, the south received considerably more rainfall during the growing season than the northern regions.
While still on the subject of “ record “ - the average temperature in 1999 was warmer than in 1995, 1976 and 1959, according to the German Metereological Service.
Because of the very favourable growing conditions, even the standard qualities from lesser origins were better than average. In other words, the potential for 1999 was great - but the results couldn't be more diverse and extreme ! Official, final, statistics aren't available yet but the Deutscher Weinbauverband, the German Wine Growers' Association estimates the volume at 12.8 to13 million hectolitres, roughly 15% over last year's quantity.
Again, as with the preceding vintages, the late ripening, traditional varieties fared much better than the crossbred „ Neuzüchtungen“. Several days of rain in late September/early October did not bode well for the thin skinned, plumper grapes of the crossbred varietals, whereas the thicker skins of the late ripening traditional varieties like Riesling were not resp. not much affected . The harvest started as early as the last days of August for early ripening varieties in the Pfalz and - except for the last week of September and the first week of October - was carried out under good weather conditions. The Riesling harvest in the northern regions was largely finished by the second week of November.
- Special thanks to Johannes Selbach of Selbach-Oster for this report.
The 1998 vintage wines are described as fine and fruity with good varietal character, harmonious acidity and a strong, full flavor. Good quantities of Qualitätswein (QbA) and Kabinett level wines from all grape varieties were produced in 1998 with higher quality levels being produced primarily from late ripening varieties, the resilient Riesling and Spätburgunder (Pinot Noir). The return to average quantities was a welcome relief amongst many producers after the previous small harvests of 1995, 1996, and 1997 had resulted in drastically shrinking inventories and shortages of some varietals. Higher quantities also result in price stability, welcome news for consumers around the world who can continue to enjoy the excellent price-value relationship of German wines on the world market.The winter of 97/98 remained free of frost damage. The first few months of 1998 were mild with temperatures above average. A moisture deficit from the pervious months was carried over and the lack of winter moisture increased the deficit. Early blooming and growth were triggered by the mild temperatures at the beginning of the year, but luckily a cold spell at the end of March and the middle of April put the brakes on a premature growth. Shooting was generally earlier than normal and proceeded regularly. May brought bright sunshine for a majority of the wine regions with temperatures in some areas climbing to summer levels and furthering steady development of the vines. June began with slightly above normal hours of sunshine and corresponding temperatures and an occasional rain temporarily relaxed the increasing drought. Blossoming began slightly early, but was drastically set back by falling temperatures. A return to warm to hot weather in the last third of the month brought blooming to a conclusion without notable losses.
Development of the grapes in July were below normal, but rain and some warm days were positive. At the end of the month, temperatures climbed and the first half of August brought extremely warm, record-breaking temperatures. As a result of the heat wave and lack of rainfall, many areas experienced stagnated growth. Sunburn damage and dried-out berries in unusually high proportions were reported. Symptoms of drought distress were alleviated in September which began with cool temperatures and with the longed for rain showers that continued regularly, with few exceptions, measuring more than twice the normal rainfall for the month. The sun shone again at the end of the month bring warmer weather and a slow beginning of the harvest in hopes of a golden October and a dry harvesting season.
Unfortunately, the hopes were not fulfilled, and the hurricanes of the American east coast sent their wet followers to middle Europe, where constant rain threatened grape quality and greatly complicated harvesting measures. In light of the prognosis that better weather was not on the way the decision was made for a swift harvest. Every break in the weather, day and night, were used to bring in the grape harvest.
Finally, in the last half of October, sunny breaks in the weather made it possible for late-ripening varieties, such as Riesling, to gain quality and make higher quality "prädikats" wine plentiful. An early deep cold in November brought the possibility of an Eiswein harvest to nearly all regions in very good quantities, rounding out the vintage very nicely, indeed.
- Information from the German Wine Information Bureau.
