2018 gave us a lucky harvest. After a vigorous and snowy winter, continuing alternation between abundant rain and sunshine marked spring. Some thunderstorms and hail approached the Côte des Blancs and the Coteaux du Sézannais in May, but except some light leaf damage, none of our vines or grapes were harmed. Mildew was a major problem at that period, but it seemed to be under control at the beginning of the warm and dry summer. Drought was compensated by the huge ground water reserves stored in the chalky sub soils that act like a sponge, supplying water to the plants and the grapes until optimum ripeness was achieved.
This year’s harvest was very early, as we started to pick the firs grapes on August 28th. Grapes were tasty and healthy, showing good balance between sugars and acidity, as well as crisp citrus flavours and aromas of pears, apples and some spices. Fermentations went along without any problems and malos are under way. We expect a beautiful vintage, where all of our vineyards will fully express their peculiar character. To our greatest satisfaction, the wines from the Coteaux du Sésannais, “Silexus Sézannensis” and “Les Abbesses”, are already keeping up with the most precious Grand Cru terroirs we cultivate at the Côte des Blancs.