2017 Vintage at the GARNIER & sons Wine Estate

Weather Journal

Following an early bud break, the buds were at risk of being exposed to spring frosts. What we feared happened. Nightfall of the 17th of April marked the beginning of ten long nights with below-zero temperatures.

This cold spell particularly impacted the northern Chablis area (Ligny-le-Châtel, Maligny, Lignorelles, La Chapelle-Vaulpelteigne, Beine…) where most of our plots are located. We lost more than 50% of our buds.

For the rest of the vegetative cycle, the pace was intense but stable. A lasagne of sun-water-sun-water, in regular intervals, nourished our grapes. Fortunately there were no more climatic threats or diseases.

The vines grew fully and evenly. Maturity was reached naturally by photosynthesis and not by concentration, as has been the case in past years. Summer was overcast with a slightly dry month of August. Most importantly the grapes were exceptionally healthy come harvest time.

Harvesting Journal

Harvesting began early, on the 5th of September in our Petit Chablis vines in Lignorelles. The soil is lighter there and the grapes always mature quicker. Harvesting conditions were ideal: not too hot, not too sunny and just the right amount of rain.

After two harvests – 2016 (15hl/ha) and 2017 (34hl/ha), this harvest is lesser than normal. The future wine had admirable degrees, between 12° and 13°, acidities were at 6 to 7 grams and the pH levels were between 3.10 and 3.20. Vinification took place without hindrance thanks to these exceptional balances.

Tasting Journal

The overall opinion of 2017 is that it is a ‘classic’ vintage. It is the epitome of a Chablis wine, sharing the same qualities as the 2014 and 2010 years; dense, rich and fresh with the tension we appreciate in a great wine.