Bordeaux 2012: better but smaller than 2011

The producers at the Les Corbins estates in Saint Emilion are starting to declare themselves “happy” with the 2012 vintage despite the small quantites.

Speaking to the drinks business, Anabelle Cruse Bardinet of Château Corbin said: “We are very happy with the vintage. We had very good quality grapes and the first wines are very aromatic.”

However, while the quality may be strong the volumes are down quite sharply. Bardinet continued: “In Bordeaux as a whole volumes are down 20% and so there will definitely be less than 2011.”

François Despagne of neighbouring estate Château Grand Corbin-Despagne added that it had been a tricky growing season, “the complete opposite to 2011” but in many ways much more “classic Bordeaux, hot and dry”.

The season has been exceptionally late this year, with many growers only just finishing their harvests and many more yet to finish.

Yseult de Gaye of Château Grand Corbin-Manuel said that the last few days of harvesting had been beset by rain – which many had feared – however there was no rot to speak of.

“We did some extra sorting and worked quickly in the vines,” she explained, “the Cabernet Franc is really excellent this year. It’s a very lovely vintage, we’re very happy.”