2007 has been a surprising year. First, a wonderful spring time suggested an early grape harvest, but July and August were colder thus restoring the natural cycle so that the grape harvest started on September 20, under the sunshine (almost on the same day as in 2006).
On this nice September morning, the white Crozes-Hermitage harvest has started.
The 2007 vintage looks promising.
The grapes look healthy. These last two weeks, a strong wind (“le Mistral”) has been blowing, which has helped sugar concentrating. That means this vintage may be rich in aromas with a good alcohol level.
Complying with basic hygienic rules is crucial during the harvest. Every evening, the bins (locally known as “les bennes”) as well as all the implements (wine press, pumps etc .) are steam-washed to prevent unwanted bugs from spreading.
The latest addition to our range of wines: a 100% Syrah “Vin de Pays”, aged in barrels (not flavoured with wood chips).
A silky lightly tannic wine, with a ruby colour, with a typical Syrah blackcurrant and redcurrant nose. A perfect match for your summer barbecues with friends.
Only sold in bottles.
Available: March 2007.
Today we are picking grapes to make Vin de Pays.
Let’s take the opportunity to thank somebody you haven ‘t seen yet on the photos: Maryline!
She runs the guest house but she also has to prepare loads of food for all the grape pickers. And grape pickers love eating! These last two weeks, she has cooked chicken, wild boar with sauce grand veneur (a reduction of red wine with garlic, shallots and red currant jelly, yum!), pork sausages cooked in grape pomace (yum!) and an array of mouth-watering desserts.
Thanks a lot, Maryline. We’ll be right back next year!
The 2006 Saint-Joseph grape harvest slideshow:
