Côte de Nuits

In Côte de Nuits the mildew has had a devastating effect on the yield … 40-90% loss … but in reality, there are plots that will not be harvested and I frankly don’t see any plots yielding more than 50%. … anyhow these numbers are not that important curretly

However, what do we compare with … the record-breaking 2022 and 2023 vintages? … an average year? … yes all is complex in the world of Burgundy.

Big Variation

There are some plots more badly hit than others, this is quite natural. But when you see two plots next to each other being very differently affected … despite the climate, the rootstock and the clone (massale) are the same … then it is clear that a lot of things can influence the spread of mildew.

The following candidates to influencers are:

The Spraying frequency and timing

The spraying timing and frequency are essential and if you really miss the timing on one of these then you can be in big trouble … and the mildew will just explode. It should be mentioned that most did between 10 to 20 sprayings – some more than 20 during the 2024 season.

The spraying agent

There are from what I understand different spraying agents you can choose from … it would be very interesting if someone at the organizations – like BIVB or other competent offices could explore if some of these agents perform better than others.

The Rootstock/clone

I would say that it would be normal if some rootstocks and clones are more sensitive to mildew than others… studies of this could well be useful in the long run. Sadly it takes 30-40 years to replant a Burgundy vineyard.

The cover crop height and crop

There is no doubt that the cover crop decides a part of the humidity of the vineyard plot. High and very intense cover crops can be quite difficult to control in a year with high mildew pressure.

… more to come

Harvest wines …

Harvest also includes pleasure and nice times with fellow geeks … here are a few nice bottles …

Yesterdays Harvest Vie