Vintage 2023

Variable climatic conditions in 2023 reflected in a mixed bag of a vintage in much of Europe. In France, Bordeaux provided a highlight. A humid early summer was countered by late-season sunshine that worked in the region’s favour, yielding classically styled red wines that emphasised restraint over power. White Bordeaux is not to be overlooked in 2023, while this vintage is predicted to be an excellent one for Sauternes, where the perfect sequence of weather conditions led to the optimal development of noble rot. In Burgundy, 2023 was similar to the successful 2022, and it would be hard to pick between reds and whites. Despite unprecedented heat, the vintage produced red wines of finesse and approachability, as well as ageworthiness. 2023 whites are concentrated yet balanced, with a ripeness reminiscent of 2018 or 2020.

In the rest of Europe, Italy – specifically Piedmont – stood out from a variable pack. Extremes of rain and heat brought challenges, but the best producers in Barolo and Barbaresco produced wines that balanced power and restraint, with a good outlook for medium- to long-term cellaring. Despite climatic challenges, Napa enjoyed a stellar vintage, producing Cabernets in delicious abundance and with optimal balance. Elsewhere in the New World, regions in New Zealand’s South Island best navigated the La Niña-influenced climatic conditions, estates in Marlborough (vibrant, aromatic Sauvignon Blancs) and Central Otago (concentrated, structured Pinot Noirs) providing the vintage’s highlights.