What a difference a year makes: in the vines of Pauillac

Bunch@Château Pichon-Longueville 23rd August 2009

August has been hot and dry down in Pauillac as well. The grapes have changed colour – the véraison looks even with the grapes changing colour at the same time, unlike 2007 when there were very marked differences in maturity within the same bunch. Unlike the equivalent weekend last year, the vineyards are dry and dusty – in 2008 they were saturated with water. If the weather keeps up then 2009 could be a good vintage. There is a risk of storms at the beginning of next week as there is in the Loire but clearing up from Wednesday. Obviously there is a while to go and September could turn out to be poor but things at this stage are certainly looking more promising than they were this time last year and in 2007.

Château Pichon-Longueville grapes: 23rd August 2009

Pichon-Longueville: one vine (left) with esca; one vine healthy

As in other vineyards in France, esca is a problem disease here – it is no respecter of grands crus!

First World War memorial in vineyards of Pichon-Longueville

Château Lynch-Bages well spaced out bunches - 23rd August 2009

Should the vintage be good, I suspect we will see hefty price rises for 2009 Bordeaux en primeur, particularly at the top end.

In contrast: bunches of grapes from the same period in 2008 and 2007

21st August 2008: Pichon-Longueville – still signs of green grapes and some just turning colour

21st August 2008: Pichon-Longueville - still many green grapes here. Ground was also very wet.

19th August 2007: Château Lynch-Bages: very variable ripening

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Other photos of Pauillac

Sign for Château Fonbadet

Château Fonbadet

Sign on a house for workers at Château Latour presumably

As well as grand châteaux and plenty of bling there are also many modest houses in Pauillac