Adapting to a Warmer Climate

2019 was a very strong vintage for both whites and reds. Yields were down as some varieties recovered from rainy 2018.

Bud break in late April was normal and consistent. A warm, wet May stimulated rapid shoot growth. Some vineyard blocks exhibited very uneven shoot development. This proved to be a result of vascular damage from poor hardening off in late 2018. Young vines and Merlot were the most adversely affected.

An early bloom (late May through early June) was successful under ideal conditions (warm and sunny). The difference in cluster size and quantity was noticeable with Chardonnay, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Manseng having larger than normal bunches, but Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Semillon, and Sauvignon Blanc being sparse.

Late June was marked by a moderate hailstorm that bruised and damaged berries on the top/west side of the canopy. Most, but not all of these berries shriveled and fell off. However there were still a significant number of compromised berries that would have the potential to present rot and uneven ripening issues later in the season.

July started a long hot dry period, which would last until harvest was over. There remained ample moisture in the ground, so vines did not slow their vegetative cycle until early August (right on time for véraison). A hot, dry August accelerated ripening.

An early harvest began on August 26 at our warmer Boisseau Vineyard with Chardonnay and Viognier. The crop was in excellent shape with good flavors. The only concern was with low acids caused by hot days and warm nights. This concern persisted throughout all of the white grape harvest. In some cases Chardonnay was picked on the early side to retain freshness.

Red grapes were picked under hot dry conditions, which is most unusual as a few decades ago we often had to wear glove to keep our fingers warm. While it was an easy harvest, questions lingered about the timing of picking as the juice was very ripe, but tannins lagged in maturity. We opted to pick on the early side to preserve freshness and integrity of terroir. Extractions were gentle so as not to pick up any greenness or bitterness from seeds. The last day of harvest was October 2, 2019.

Linden Vineyards / Our Wines / Vintage Summaries | 2019 Vintage