Vintage

I view vintage an essential “qualifier” for the selection process. It’s basically very simple. In order for wine to reach its full potential, the fruit must be ripe and harvested when the winemaker deems it appropriate. This can be exceedingly difficult to judge. Some varietals (Pinot Noir) are particularly challenged by the vagaries of weather which can necessitate compromising a harvest. There will always be exceptional wines made in poor vintages but locating and identifying those wines can be a challenge. By using vintage as my first factor in selection, I can make more informed choices for my clients.

Vintages and appellations that are of most interest to me now:

California Cabernet Sauvignon:
2001 and 2002 – Back to back exceptionally fine vintages.

California Chardonnay:
2001 and 2002 – Back to back outstanding vintages – the best since ’97, ’95 and ’92.

California Zinfandel:
2001 and 2002 – Two very solid years – much better than 2000 – on a par with ‘99, ’95 and ’92.

California Pinot Noir:
2001 and 2002 – Best back to back years since 1994.

Oregon Pinot:
2002 was an exceptional vintage – best since 1994. 2001 was an off year.

Bordeaux:
2000 in general was King – a must have. 1998 was exceptional in Pomerol – a must have. Next stop 1990, 1989, 1982, 1961 (with many exceptions).

Burgundy (Red):
2002 - Exceptional vintage in the Cote de Nuits – lots of hype here, but the scores indicate about as good as it gets.
2000 and 2001 – Off year in general.
1999 – Very good vintage, but not as good as 2002.

Burgundy (White):
2002 - Exceptional vintage – best since 1996.

Northern Rhone:
2002 – Bust – it rained cats and dogs.
2001 was average as was 2000. 1999 were exceptional, next stop 1991.

Southern Rhone:
2002 was a bust.
2001, 2000 and 1998 were as good as it gets – ever.

Southeast Australia:
2002 – Exceptional vintage – the inside line has this as good if not better than any vintage in the past 30 years.