Vintage report 1998

Written By Edric Mörsner

The Rugged Underdog

  • Reputation: A "grower's vintage." Severe frost, hail, and a heatwave in August were followed by rain. Only those who sorted ruthlessly made great wine.

  • Red (Cote de Nuits): The star of the year. Appellations like Vosne-Romanée and Morey-Saint-Denis produced deeply colored, spicy wines with "masculine" tannins.

  • Red (Cote de Beaune): More uneven due to earlier rain; Volnay was particularly challenged.

  • White: Generally mediocre and best consumed years ago.

  • Current Status: Drinking Well. The reds have a rustic, savory charm that appeals to those who like earthy, tertiary Pinot Noir.

Edric Mörsner
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Vintage report 1999