I have just returned from Champagne – late August 2023 – where the producers are confidently looking forward to the harvest, which will start around September 12.
But, as they say, nothing is certain until the must is in the tank.
They have had problems with downy mildew, a fungal disease, and some parts of Champagne have seen grey rot (botrytis) spread in recent days, but overall, they have fine grapes and grape bunches that are unusually heavy. Champagne Jacquinot had weighed in pinot noir at 243g on 20 August, chardonnay at 216g and pinot meunier at 143g.
One producer we met went so far as to say that 2023 might be the house’s best year ever. Now, they are hoping for sunny weather, and the forecast looks good.
We will tell you more after our September visits to Champagne.
Travel: Come on a wine tour to Champagne with BKWine.
