Burgundy 2017

The 2017 vintage in Burgundy appears to be yet another high quality one. Thankfully, the quantity also appears to be ample. It seems likely that the size of the overall crop is the largest since 2009.

In general, acidities are refreshingly high and this augers well for the quality of the wines, particularly the white wines.

However, Chablis appears to be less fortunate than the other appellations - it suffered frosts for 15 consecutive days in April. Once again, the quality is excellent.

Megan McClune from Domaine Jessiaume in Santenay reported:

After a cold winter in January, temperatures remain above seasonal norms from February to mid-April.

"The vine-growing cycle starts quickly but a cold period at the end of April slows it down and causes some frost damage in a few parcels. In May and June, the temperatures rise again and allow the flowering to finish quickly. The vines are very healthy this year and the diseases are limited except in the area of Santenay where the mildew is present.

Summer is rather warm and above normal temperatures. The maturity is quickly progressing and we start harvest on September 2nd, 2017.

The grapes are very healthy and the harvest is generous and ripe. The sugars and acid levels are close to 2005 in Pinot Noir and 2009 in Chardonnay.

The vinificated wines are quite rich but they keep enough acidity to be fresh and juicy. The reds have beautiful soft and round tannins."