(Montalcino, October 28th) The spring months, beginning of the vegetative cycle, have been characterized by abundant rainfalls, which have favored high levels of water reserves. The rainy phase went on till mid July, with temperatures particularly fresh and pretty much below the season averages. From mid July, the climate has been warm and dry and, in this phase, the vines could benefit from the water reserves accumulated during the spring. Night temperatures, relatively fresh, have favored the perfumes and polyphenols synthesis, enhancing the grapes quality.
On Monday, August 24th, we started harvesting the Pinot Grigio and Chardonnay, one week earlier than last year. During the second week of harvesting we picked the Sauvignon Blanc. The rainstorm that hit the area had no consequences on the grapes. Daytime temperatures remained high, with cool nights which continued to provide us with healthy and beautiful grapes. With the whites completely harvested, attention turned first toward the early ripening red varieties, starting with Merlot and Syrah. Since mid September the weather was variable, alternating between light rainfalls l and clearing; it has not caused any problems at this point though, and the quality of the grapes remains high. and clearing without causing any problems and allowing for harvesting the last varieties, Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon, with no troubles. It was a long harvest, with a good quality and quantity is more or less aligned with the results of 2008.