As I looked out of my window yesterday morning, everything seemed perfect – as expected it was one of the hottest days of the year at around 35c and, so far, August has been absolutely delightful. There was enough rainfall early in the year to keep the water table up and avoid the risk of drought, but another shower or two before the end of the month would be handy – otherwise the grapes will have very thick skins and not much juice.

We have had a much better summer than ‘07 and ‘08, albeit not exceptionally hot. There was one hail storm on May 20th in Cote de Nuits and massive rains on July 13th and 14th but there is not much sign of disease of any sort. Fingers crossed for a fine vintage if things keep going well for the next three weeks.  Harvest dates are being brought forward – the probable start will be around 5th September.