The grapes are changing colour in the vineyards of Bordeaux, a process called ‘veraison’. It is a good indicator of the eventual uniformity of ripeness. A little erratic this year. This is the time that the ‘eclaircissage’ takes place that is the removing of the superfluous bunches of grapes that are overbunched to create better airflow. Also the still green bunches that would not be ripe at the point of harvest.
The weather is a little stormy and grey on this bank holiday (15 August) but has been sunny the last ten days or so. Not a great summer so far. Harvest predicted around start October for reds.
SIP WINE BLOG - Bordeaux plus 