Bordeaux En Primeur 2024

Bordeaux En Primeur 2024 Release Date:

The Fine Wine Library team will be in Bordeaux this spring to taste the wines, with releases expected to begin at the end of May and continue through June 2025.

The Bordeaux 2024 harvest and expectations:

The 2024 Bordeaux harvest was a test of resilience for winemakers across the region, marked by challenging weather and meticulous vineyard management. Many estates completed their harvests by mid-October after holding off through late-season rains to allow Cabernet grapes to ripen. Heavy rainfall made September the wettest in 30 years, with cool temperatures slowing sugar development but also preventing widespread rot. This combination led to a low-yielding vintage, with production down approximately 14% compared to 2023.

Despite these challenges, the best terroirs and diligent vineyard practices have produced promising results. Grapes on well-draining soils fared better, and careful vineyard work, including minimal soil disturbance and effective mildew management, was critical. While alcohol levels are slightly lower and acidities higher than in recent vintages, early reports suggest excellent aromatics in the best plots, although some vegetal notes may appear where ripeness was incomplete. The vintage highlights stark contrasts between terroirs and châteaux, with meticulous attention and teamwork proving essential in this difficult year.

Harvest dates varied widely, reflecting diverse approaches to managing the vintage's complexities. While the En Primeur tastings are still months away, this vintage underlines the importance of celebrating both exceptional and challenging years in Bordeaux. The skill and determination of winemakers to adapt to unpredictable conditions deserve recognition, as does the enduring quality of Bordeaux’s great terroirs, which continue to deliver characterful wines even under the toughest circumstances.