Burgundy 2017, end of the curse of years ending in 7?

For decades, vintages ending with the number 7 had not really made a lasting impression in Burgundy1957, 1967, 1977, 1987, 1997, 2007… So many years often considered mediocre, even downright disappointing, with the exception of the unforgettable 1947. A wine curse? Perhaps. But the 2017 vintage changes the gameand restores the reputation of this cursed series.

In addition to favorable weather conditions2017 offer comfortable volumes, a consistent quality And precise, fresh and appealing wine profilesboth in red and white. All the more reason to take a closer look and, above all, to...to welcome properly into his cellar.

A climat (almost) ideal for Burgundy

After several trying years marked by frost, hail or devastating diseases, 2017 stands out as a blessing. Spring was particularly hot and drypromoting rapid and even budbreak of the vines. The summer, without excesses, allowed for a regular maturation, with mild temperatures and little water stress.

Only a few sectors, in particular Chablis and certain areas of the Mâconnaishave experienced difficult weather events. But overall, the Côte d'Or, the Côte Chalonnaise and the Côte de Nuits benefited from favorable weatherresulting in early, healthy and abundant harvests.

A climat (almost) ideal for Burgundy

After several trying years marked by frost, hail or devastating diseases, 2017 stands out as a blessing. Spring was particularly hot and drypromoting rapid and even budbreak of the vines. The summer, without excesses, allowed for a regular maturation, with mild temperatures and little water stress.

Only a few sectors, in particular Chablis and certain areas of the Mâconnaishave experienced difficult weather events. But overall, the Côte d'Or, the Côte Chalonnaise and the Côte de Nuits benefited from favorable weatherresulting in early, healthy and abundant harvests.

A relief for production volumes

After several low-yield seasons (2013, 2016…), the Burgundy vineyards needed a break. And 2017 marks a clear return to balance : red wine volumes have increased by nearly 20 % compared to the average of the previous five vintages. A boon for producers, but also for enthusiasts, who were finally able to find on the market wines that had sometimes been absent for several years.

The increase in volume, however, has not affected quality. Thanks to careful yield control and rigorous work in the vineyard, The wines retain all their concentration and finesse..

A healthy vintage, favorable to organic and biodynamic farming.

Another strong point of this vintage: its impeccable health. THE climat The dry summer has considerably limited the development of fungal diseases (downy mildew, powdery mildew). The grapes arrived at the winery in exceptional condition., without rot and with great homogeneity.

This has been particularly beneficial for organic or biodynamic farms, whose vines are often more sensitive to excessive humidity. The result: Pure, expressive and balanced wines, which faithfully reflect the typical characteristics of their terroir.

Wines of great aromatic purity

Reds: crisp, fresh, elegant

THE red wines from the 2017 vintage are immediately appealingTheir color ranges from bright ruby to deep garnet. On the nose, they are... Fresh red berries which dominate cherry, redcurrant, raspberry; accompanied by subtle floral notes and sweet spices. On the palate, the tannins are fine, melted, and the acidic structure provides a great deal of freshness.

White wines: tension, fruit and minerality

On the side of whites, It is the purity of the fruit and the minerality which are impressive. The aromas of pear, green apple and citrus intertwine with chalky notes, lightly toasted depending on the aging process. The finish, taut and saline, leaves a beautiful impression of clarity. A very "Burgundian" style that will appeal to lovers of Chablis, Meursault or Puligny-Montrachet.

Aging potential varies depending on the appellation.

One of the characteristics of the 2017 vintage is its great accessibility from a young ageRed wines, in particular, are already very pleasant to drink today. But that doesn't mean they lack structure. The finest vintages, from plots with low yields or from vieilles vignes, have good storage potential.

The names of the Côte de Nuits — Nuits-Saint-Georges, Vosne-Romanée, Gevrey-Chambertin — display a beautiful density, with excellent aging potential of 10 to 15 years. As for the white wines, the crus of the Mâconnais and Côte de Beaune will also be able to evolve harmoniously over a period of about ten years.

Unanimous critical acclaim: 2017 is a hit

Specialized critics were quick to praise the vintage's success. Review of Vin de France awarded average rating of 17/20 for white And 16.5/20 in redwhile emphasizing the homogeneity and elegance of the wines.

Certain sectors have particularly shone:

• THE Pouilly-Fuissé distinguished themselves by their freshness and complexity.

• The reds of Chambolle-Musigny And Volnay They won over the tasters with their finesse.

2017 is thus perceived as a a “classic” vintage in the best sense of the wordrespectful of the Burgundian balance.

Climat kind, improved yields, consistent quality, freshness and immediate pleasure… All indicators are green for making 2017 a very fine vintage of Burgundy.

Accessible, versatile, and expressive, it will appeal to just as many Lovers of great terroirs and curious minds in search of wonderful discoveries will find something to enjoy..

Want to discover the treasures of 2017 vintage ?