Wednesday, July 2, 2025

LeDomduVin: Chateau Haut-Bailly Pessac-Leognan Bordeaux 2010

 



Chateau Haut-Bailly Pessac-Léognan 

Bordeaux 2010 


I remember when Château Haut-Bailly was purchased by Robert G. Wilmers in 1998. 

I was a young sommelier newly arrived in London, and I read in the specialized press that Jean Sanders, the grandfather of Véronique Sanders, who had purchased the château in 1955, had sold it to Wilmers, who then entrusted Véronique with managing the property. Later, Véronique became the CEO of Haut-Bailly in 2000. 

Although Haut-Bailly was well regarded by the late 90s and early 2000s, it was not fully expressing its potential and needed a renaissance. This purchase, combined with improvements in winemaking practices and a renewed focus on quality at the estate, is often cited as a key reason for its increased recognition and popularity. 

In the early 2000s, Château Haut-Bailly underwent a complete renovation and modernization of its cellars. This project was part of a broader effort to improve the quality of their wines after the estate was purchased by Robert G. Wilmers. The cellar upgrades were made to help produce the best wines possible. 

The cellar was restored around 2000, accompanied by significant changes to the vineyard. These involved green harvesting to remove underripe grapes and multiple harvesting passes to achieve optimal ripeness. Oenologist Gabriel Vialard joined the team in 2002 to further enhance the winemaking process. 

At that time, I had never visited Haut-Bailly, but I was familiar with the wine, having purchased and sold numerous bottles in various restaurants where I worked in France and London. I had always promised myself to visit someday, as I liked their wine.

In 2002, after five incredible years in London, I moved to New York and was working there at www.PJWine.com with owner Peter Yi. Peter enjoyed traveling to Bordeaux and Spain every year during the "En Primeur" period (around mid-April) to taste wines and plan future purchases. 

For five years, from 2002 to 2007, I planned and scheduled these trips in advance by booking visits to the châteaux and various négociants, as well as most tastings featuring the Cru Bourgeois, up to the prestigious Grands Crus Classés level (including the hotels and restaurants). 

Apart from being a wine consultant (then wine director) and one of the wine buyers at his retail store and for the website, I also served as some kind of PA and chauffeur during our travels. 

It was a tough job, with extended hours, six to seven days a week, but it was worth it, and I loved every minute of it. Besides tasting, buying, and selling some of the most prestigious wines in the world, who wouldn't enjoy traveling to regions where they're produced to taste them at the property with the winemakers and dining at some of the best restaurants in Bordeaux, the Basque region, and Spain? 

I would always be grateful to Peter Yi, as he offered me the opportunity to do all that and so much more. Interestingly, we both had a certain character and often clashed. He, being Korean American, and I, being French, I guess he saw me as arrogant and annoying. 

And yet, he appreciated the job I was doing for him and saw added value in me. And although he told me every day that he would fire me, he kept me by his side and under his wing for five years. It was more like one of those love-hate relationships between employer and employee, and it always ended with sharing some food and a glass of wine, laughing with the rest of the team at the back of the store. 😉👍🍷    

In April 2003, we took our first trip together as a team to Bordeaux, and I arranged a visit to the Chateau. It was a beautiful day, and we were driving around Pessac-Leognan after visiting a few other Chateaux in the area.    




******work in progress******






Cheers! Santé!

Dom
@ledomduvin #ledomduvin #wine #vin #vino #wein @chateauhautbailly #hautbailly #pessacleognan #bordeaux #sommelier #sommelierlife #sommlife #tastingnotes #ilovemyjob #lovewine






Unless stated otherwise, all rights reserved ©LeDomduVin 2025, on all the contents above including, but not limited to, photos, pictures, drawings, illustrations, collages, visuals, maps, memes, posts, texts, writings, quotes, notes, tasting notes, descriptions, wine descriptions, definitions, recipes, graphs, tables, and even music and video (when and where applicable).

Tuesday, June 24, 2025

LeDomduVin: A HUGE THANK YOU for 45,000+ views in the last 7 days






A HUGE THANK YOU 

for 45,000+ views in the last 7 days




Every now and then, I like to thank all my readers because you are the fuel of my inspiration and the motivation to keep writing on this blog and across various social media platforms. You are amazing, and today even better than ever before.  

I became a Wine Blogger when I started this blog 17 years ago, in 2008, with no expectations, simply to share my knowledge and passion for wine with the world. 

Initially, I was content with having only a few dozen views a week. Then, in about 5 years, the number grew to a few hundred, which was already extraordinary for me, as I'm just an unknown Sommelier and Wine Buyer, not a public figure and not even an influencer (as we say nowadays). 

After about 9 years, the number of views continued to grow, reaching a few thousand per week. This was unexpected yet so satisfying. And in November 2017, it reached the stratospheric number of 17,500+ views per week.  I was speechless.   

Last year, this number often exceeded 20,000 views per week. My happiness was indescribable.  

This year, the number of views per week has been oscillating between 20,000 and 35,000, which is both incredible and unbelievable. 

Over the past few weeks, this number has exceeded 40,000 views per week, reaching over 45,000 views...  

This is truly incredible, and I still can't believe it. I can't thank you enough for the attention and dedication you're giving to my blog, and indirectly to me and my writing.  

I have always been very creative since childhood. I loved drawing and creating collages; I also love photography and art in general. I have even been making my own music since 2020 under the alias DOMELGABOR. But the thing I have always been the best at is writing.   

I fell in love with writing early on, first in French and then later in English. I enjoyed inventing and imagining stories, writing them in notebooks. Between the ages of 10 and 18, I wrote about eight books that I never published and have since lost over the years.  

This blog has been (and continues to be) a platform for me to share stories—both true and fictional—about my personal life, my career, wines from around the world, and my experiences as a Sommelier and Wine Buyer over the past 33 years, as well as insights into the world of wine.    

All your views, likes, and comments are sincerely appreciated, and I thank you all for that! You make my day, every day!  

THANK YOU, 45,000 times to all of you! You are truly amazing!

Cheers! Santé! 

Dom

@ledomduvin #ledomduvin #wine #vin #vino #wein #thankyou #merci #blog #wineblog #views #viewsperweek #thankyouall #sommelier #sommelierlife #sommlife #blogger #wineblogger #ilovewine 


Unless stated otherwise, all rights reserved ©LeDomduVin 2025, on all the contents above including, but not limited to, photos, pictures, drawings, illustrations, collages, visuals, maps, memes, posts, texts, writings, quotes, notes, tasting notes, descriptions, wine descriptions, definitions, recipes, graphs, tables, and even music and video (when and where applicable).

LeDomduVin: Korean food paired with Burgundy wines


Korean food paired with Burgundy wines


Pairing Korean food and wine can be tricky due to the bold and varied flavors in Korean cuisine, but it's definitely doable. The secret is to select wines that enhance, rather than fight against, the food's qualities and flavors, favoring wines with bright acidity, fruit-forward profiles, and moderate tannins. 

Over time, I have learned that when pairing Korean food with wine, it's better to focus on the main protein or dish rather than the side dishes. Keep the wine versatile enough to simplify the pairing process, rather than trying to find wines that complement every flavor.

Generally, it's better to avoid heavy and tannic red wines, as they can clash with spicy or savory dishes. Choosing lighter-bodied reds with good acidity is usually a safer option. However, most sommeliers and connoisseurs will tell you that dry or slightly off-dry, yet crisp, whites, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Riesling, are generally good choices for spicy dishes. Off-dry wines can be a good match for Korean dishes that have some sweetness or spice.  

Korean dishes often feature a mix of spicy, sweet, salty, and umami flavors, making it challenging to find a single wine that pairs well with all of them. Still, I was up for the challenge and chose Burgundy wines, which generally also pair well with Korean food.  

The host wanted me to serve only red wine, but, as mentioned above, I knew I had to bring some white wine as well, since it's usually better appreciated with Korean food. I usually follow my instincts, and luckily, I did again, as the white wine turned out to be more successful than the red.  

The challenge was to find a fruit-forward white wine with bright acidity and good minerality, complex enough to complement the food without overpowering it. Chassagne-Montrachet came to mind, and given my recent successful pairing experience with the succulent Batard-Montrachet from Fontaine-Gagnard at another event, I decided to opt for their Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru Les Caillerets 2020 (one of my favorites from Chassagne), which combines complexity, amplitude, and freshness.   

For the red, I chose a Volnay. Known for its freshness, elegance, delicate character, and moderate tannins, it's often described as a "feminine" wine, especially when compared to the more robust wines of Pommard, its neighbor. Coincidentally, I also brought a Pommard in case the host and his guests found the Volnay too light. 

The wines received praise from the attendees, especially the white wine, which was delightful and paired exceptionally well with the food. My taste buds also confirmed this, as I had the opportunity to sample some of the food in the kitchen, paired with a bit of each wine. Tasting food and wine together is crucial for a sommelier, as it is the only way to develop a refined palate and create palate memories that enhance one's taste, experience, and knowledge. Once again, I was happy and content with the choices I made. 


 



Domaine Fontaine-Gagnard Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru "Les Caillerets" 2020


Having opened their superb Batard-Montrachet 2020 a few days earlier, I wanted to revisit the experience. However, since Korean food requires more acidity, this Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru Les Caillerets 2020 would be an ideal pairing. I hadn't tried it in a while, but knowing the quality of Fontaine-Gagnard's wines and their unmistakable freshness and minerality, I wasn't taking much risk and was confident it would be a hit.   

Domaine Fontaine-Gagnard was established in 1985 by Laurence Gagnard, a member of the Gagnard family in Chassagne, and Richard Fontaine. Since 2007, the domaine has been skillfully led by Céline Fontaine, who blends youthful energy and a touch of tradition with the Burgundian legacy established by her parents, creating classic examples of some of Burgundy's most renowned climats. The domaine produces wine from three Grand Crus and twelve different Premier Crus, including iconic parcels such as Le Montrachet, Les Caillerets, and La Romanée.

This Chassagne-Montrachet comes from a 0.56-hectare plot called "Vigne Derriere," which was purchased by Celine's parents in the late 1990s as part of the Premier Cru vineyard "Les Caillerets." The vines, planted between 1962 and 1966 (approximately 60 years old), grow at an altitude of 220 to 325 meters on clay-limestone soils, with optimal southeast sun exposure. The soil in the upper part of the vineyard is very shallow, steep, and dotted with white stones, while the lower part is rich in clay.  

The grapes are hand-harvested. Alcoholic and malolactic fermentations occur directly in barrels for 10-15 days using native yeasts. The wine is then aged for approximately 11 months in new and used barrels, comprising one-third new oak, one-third 2-year-old oak, and one-third 3-year-old oak. Afterward, it is fined (clarified with casein and bentonite) and lightly filtered before bottling. 

The Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru Les Caillerets 2020 is a masterpiece of elegance, subtlety, and refined complexity, enhanced by excellent acidity and mineral notes. In the glass, it has a pale straw color with green reflections. The nose is charming and enticing, offering a blend of citrus and stone fruit aromas that mingle with herbal, floral, waxy, and buttery hints. Light to medium-bodied on the palate, it feels incredibly fresh with razor-sharp acidity. The flavors mirror those on the nose—straight, focused, complex, layered, yet light on its feet. It is elegant and graceful like a ballerina, gently expanding toward a long, buttery, mineral finish. I would compare it to a lighter version of their Batard-Montrachet. Celine definitely has the magic touch!      







Domaine Xavier Monnot Volnay 1er Cru "Clos des Chenes" 2021


Xavier Monnot is a notable producer in Meursault, recognized for a winemaking style that highlights purity of fruit, elegance, and complexity. Before releasing the 2005 vintage, the estate was known as Domaine René Monnier, named after Xavier's grandfather. In 2005, with improvements to his vineyard and cellar, Xavier began bottling his wines under his own label. 

Domaine Xavier Monnot is a 42-acre estate in Meursault with vineyards stretching from Beaune to Maranges. Sixty percent of the Domaine's production is white and forty percent red, with several premier cru vineyards in Meursault, Chassagne-Montrachet, Puligny-Montrachet, Beaune, Volnay, and Maranges. Xavier believes in maintaining an average vine age of 30 to 40 years and practices "lutte raisonnée." (*)

Clos des Chênes is the largest premier cru in Volnay, situated between the premier cru of Taille Pieds and the border of Monthelie. The soil there has a high limestone content, producing wines with a perfumed character, finesse, and generous fruit notes. Half of Xavier Monnot’s 2-acre parcel was planted in 1936, with the other half planted in 1978. The wine is aged for 12 to 14 months in 30-35% new French oak. 

For this event, I chose a Volnay to pair with the Korean food, as Volnay is often described as silky and elegant, with high acidity and moderate tannins. The various premier crus situated south of the village, such as Clos des Chênes, have soil with a high percentage of limestone and exhibit the classic Volnay character of perfume and finesse.

Xavier Monnot Volnay 1er Cru Clos des Chenes 2021 is a subtle yet underrated wine. It is generally light to medium-bodied, featuring high acidity, moderate to low alcohol content, and low tannin levels, which make it versatile, easy to enjoy, and suitable for pairing with food. In the glass, it presents a light garnet hue that is clear with medium intensity. Initially shy on the nose, it gradually opened up to reveal aromas of red and dark cherries, complemented by floral, herbal, and peppery notes. On the palate, it is light, fresh, vibrant, crisp, and acidic, while still offering complexity and finesse. After about an hour of airing, it mellowed and became perfectly balanced, complementing food without overpowering it. Strangely enough, this wine was not heavily affected by the oak, as there isn't much wood flavor for a wine aged 12-14 years in oak barrels. Nice wine! (even if a bit light for my taste).  


  



Domaine Nicolas Rossignol Pommard "Les Vignots" 2019


Born in 1974, Nicolas Rossignol is the fifth generation of winemakers in Volnay. He has been producing wine since 1994 at the family estate Rossignol-Jeanniard.

After studying winemaking in high school in Beaune, Nicolas gained experience working at various estates, including Domaine Joseph Voillot in Volnay, Domaine Louis Latour in Ardèche, and Domaine du Vieux Télégraphe in Châteauneuf-du-Pape. He also worked in South Africa at Boschendal in 1995, and then in Bordeaux at Château La Cardonne, managed by Château Lafite Rothschild.

In 1997, he founded his own estate, which started with 3 hectares in the villages of Volnay, Pommard, Beaune, Aloxe-Corton, and Pernand-Vergelesses. By 1998, the estate grew to approximately 16 hectares.

In 2005, he expanded with new appellations: Savigny-les-Beaune 1er Cru Fourneaux and Lavières, as well as Beaune 1er Cru Clos du Roy.

In 2011, all wines began to be produced under the label « Domaine Nicolas Rossignol, » encompassing a total of 30 different appellations. Nicolas moved to Beaune to allow for more space.

In 2014, he acquired an additional 1.5 hectares in the Pommard and Pommard 1er Cru appellations, thereby further increasing production.

By 2016, Nicolas planned to build a new winery to continue crafting high-quality wines. Today, the estate covers about 17 hectares.

"Les Vignots" is not a 1er Cru but a lieu-dit, and also the name of the plot, located above the hill of Pommard, near the Arvelets, on the Beaune side with a south exposure. The vines are planted on a steep slope with poor, rocky soil, which is a result of erosion. This plot (characterized by this terroir) wasn’t affected by Phylloxera in the 19th century; as a result, its vines were used to create grafted vines in Côte de Beaune. The vines are between 30 and 40 years old, typically producing fresh, mineral wines with chalky tannins. The sunny period and southern exposure help all elements reach perfect maturity.

Nicolas Rossignol's wines are crafted from carefully selected grapes from vineyards cultivated using traditional winemaking techniques inspired by biodynamic principles. The vineyard is managed with "reasoned" viticulture practices, considering the lunar influence during both cultivation and wine production & aging. No chemical herbicides are used; soil maintenance is achieved through light plowing.

Unfortunately, there's not much to say about this bottle of Pommard, as it didn't taste great, despite my high expectations, especially given the excellent 2019 vintage in Burgundy. And the worst part is that I couldn't tell if it was because it was a bad bottle or because I just dislike it... Already, on the nose, it displayed funky and earthy aromas. The palate was unharmonious, with rough edges, a lack of fruit, substance, and texture, and featured weird acidity and dry, earthy, almost green tannins that were out of place, along with a bitter, unripe finish. Definitely not my taste, and, needless to say, not in line with the quality of the vintage.  

Shame, I usually love the wines of Nicolas Rossignol, but this one was disappointing. Bad bottle? Maybe. I still have 2 bottles in stock. I will give it another try.     



Cheers! Santé! 

Dom

(*) Lutte Raisonnée, which translates to "reasoned struggle" or "reasoned approach" in English, refers to an agricultural method, particularly in viticulture, where growers minimize chemical use but retain the option to apply them when essential to safeguard their crops. It serves as a balanced approach between conventional and organic farming, allowing growers to be environmentally conscious without the strict requirements of organic certification. 



@ledomduvin #ledomduvin #wine #vin #vino #wein @celinefontainegagnard #fontainegagnard #chassagnemontrachet @domainexaviermonnotofficiel #xaviermonnot #volnay @domaine.nicolas_rossignol #nicolasrossignol #pommard #burgundy


Monday, June 23, 2025

LeDomduVin: "R" de Rieussec Bordeaux 2020 or how I changed my "à priori" about this wine.

 



"R" de Rieussec Bordeaux 2020 or 

How I changed my "à priori" about this wine.



About 4 years ago, I bought a few cases of this wine for a private party, without expecting much of it. The host was looking for a quaffable white Bordeaux, and the supplier I was buying champagne and red wines from, which were also going to be served at the party, only had a choice of three Bordeaux white wines in sufficient quantities. So, there was not much choice.

The organizing team and I held a tasting lunch about a month before the party with three different whites, and "R" was the one that was chosen. It was good, but not as satisfying as I had hoped. 

Also, 2020 wasn't a particularly good vintage for white Bordeaux, definitely not as strong as 2019 or 2021, for example. Even the average critic scores on Wine-Searcher only reached 87/100, which is relatively low, especially for a wine priced around 25 Euros. 

I had so much "à priori" about this wine that I even wanted to contact another supplier to make a last-minute choice. Still, I was advised not to, as it was easier to order all the necessary wines from one supplier, given the good discount that would be hard to match.     

Although I have nothing against Rieussec, I have always been fond of their Sauternes. When it comes to Bordeaux white, "R" de Rieussec is definitely not the first to come to mind. Although it was selected, my expectations for guest satisfaction were pretty low. This made me uneasy when we served it, since I like to create a "wow" factor with all the wines I serve.

Among a crowd of over 100 people, this white was the least consumed and, obviously, the least appreciated of the wines served that night.

I'm usually very critical of my choices, and with decades of experience, I rarely make mistakes. Still, I was disappointed to have made such a rookie mistake. As a Bordeaux native with thirty years of experience selling Bordeaux wines, I know I could have made a better choice.   

After the party, I put the leftover wine aside in a corner of the cellar, about 30 bottles, promising not to serve it and even forget about it until recently. 

Not knowing how it tasted after nearly 4 years and thinking it probably had lost all its freshness, I brought a bottle to a recent event and asked my colleagues to taste it with me to see if it had changed and to check whether its quality was still good enough to drink or if it was better to give it to our chef to cook with.






"R" de Rieussec Bordeaux Blanc 2020

 
"R" de Rieussec is a dry white wine made by Château Rieussec, the renowned Sauternes estate better known for its sweet wines. The wine was introduced after Domaines Barons de Rothschild (Lafite) purchased the estate in 1984 as part of a broader effort to highlight the estate's potential. It also helped improve vineyard selection and more careful sorting, as it is produced from young vines and certain plots not used for the Grand Vin. The 1997 vintage is significant because it marks the transition to the current winemaking method, which involves complete vinification in barrels to add more texture, structure, and complexity to the wine. 

Although both wines usually come from a blend of Sauvignon Blanc (with citrus, herbaceous notes, and acidity), Semillon (the backbone of most Sauternes, adding body and aromas of apricot and beeswax), and Muscadelle (for aromatic complexity), the blend of "R" generally has a higher percentage of Sauvignon Blanc compared to Sauternes.   

The 2020 vintage is a blend of approximately 57% Sauvignon Blanc and 53% Sémillon. In the glass, it displayed a pale gold color with green reflections. To my surprise, the nose was quite intense and more complex than I remembered. It offered enticing aromas of citrus, apricot, and yellow stone fruits, with hints of exotic fruits mingling with notes of butter and minerals. The palate was surprisingly coating, rich, ample yet still lively (not too flabby as I thought it would), with more citrus, apricot, beeswax, and buttery notes. The finish also seemed longer than I remembered. It could have used a bit more acidity to balance it, but it still maintained some freshness. 


I left the bottle for my colleagues, who really appreciated it and even asked for more; however, I had only brought one bottle to taste. It made me reconsider not serving it again. In fact, I might use it at one of our next events. 

I was pleasantly surprised, as memories of when I last tasted it four years ago had led me to expect it would have worsened. Yet, I was wrong, and revisiting it changed my "à priori" opinion about this wine. It had nicely evolved, and although it is not the most exciting white Bordeaux, it remains a very quaffable choice, which is what was required in the first place. 

That is the beauty of wine: it is a living being that constantly evolves over time, changing its potential, taste, flavors, and profile depending on its environment and storage conditions. Therefore, one should never assume or approach wine with "a priori" thinking (like I did), and should always taste a wine as if it were the first time, because you never know— it might have evolved and improved.       


Cheers! Santé!

Dom

@ledomduvin #ledomduvin #wine #vin #vino #wein @rieussec #rieussec #bordeaux #bordeauxwhite #white #tastingnotes #sommelier #sommelierlife #sommlife #ilovemyjob #lovewine



Unless stated otherwise, all rights reserved ©LeDomduVin 2025, on all the contents above including, but not limited to, photos, pictures, drawings, illustrations, collages, visuals, maps, memes, posts, texts, writings, quotes, notes, tasting notes, descriptions, wine descriptions, definitions, recipes, graphs, tables, and even music and video (when and where applicable).

Thursday, June 19, 2025

LeDomduVin: Une belle brochette de Sommeliers





Une belle brochette de Sommeliers 

avec de belles bouteilles de Bordeaux 



Souvenir from June 2018.  I recently retrieved this picture from my time working at Goldin as Wine Quality Control Director and corporate Sommelier, where I was responsible for stock management and wine service for all the company's events and dinners.    

Back then, the Goldin Tower comprised a few restaurants, including the acclaimed French (fusion) restaurant called "Le Pan", where Lauri worked for a while as Wine Director (Head Sommelier and Wine Buyer), and a renowned Chinese restaurant called "Dynasty Garden" where Jameson worked also for a little while, also as Wine Director (Head Sommelier and Wine Buyer). 

We occasionally joined forces and helped each other for events that required manpower to serve the wine, usually when we had VVIPs at the tables, as seen in this picture from a particular dinner in June 2018.    

The four of us formed "Une belle brochette de Sommeliers" alongside some of the finest sommeliers in Hong Kong at the time.  

From left: Lauri Vainio (@finsomm), Danny Chan, Dominique Noël (@ledomduvin) Jameson Chim (@jamesonchim) 😁👍🍷

As you can see in this picture, these were good times when we opened fantastic bottles every day! 

It is a bit difficult to see them clearly in this picture, but that night we served (from left): 

  • Chateau Gruaud Larose Saint-Julien 2000
  • Chateau Le Bon Pasteur Pomerol 1982
  • Chateau Ducru Beaucaillou Saint-Julien 1990
  • Chateau Angelus Saint-Emilion 1990
  • Chateau d'Yquem Sauternes 2007

Sweet memory!



Cheers! Santé!

Dom 

@ledomduvin #ledomduvin #wine #vin #vino #wein #sommelier #sommelierlife #sommlife #ilovemyjob #lovewine #souvenir #brochettedesommeliers #brochetteofsommeliers



Unless stated otherwise, all rights reserved ©LeDomduVin 2025, on all the contents above including, but not limited to, photos, pictures, drawings, illustrations, collages, visuals, maps, memes, posts, texts, writings, quotes, notes, tasting notes, descriptions, wine descriptions, definitions, recipes, graphs, tables, and even music and video (when and where applicable).


LeDomduVin: A "Whistling " Selection!



A "Whistling " Selection! 




I could have written an "impressive" selection, but I preferred using the word "whistling" instead, as an adjective, referring to the sound we sometimes make when we are really impressed. 😁👍🍷😙🎵🎵

I recently selected and served these wines at a private dinner, and they were absolutely delicious. 😋😋😋





Louis Roederer Cristal Champagne Brut 2015


A blend of 60% Pinot Noir and 40% Chardonnay, Cristal 2015 is beautifully crafted, fresh, elegant, mineral, and highly refined. The blend is a subtle combination of the three emblematic vineyards of the house: one-third from the vineyards of "la Rivière," one-third from "la Montagne," and one-third from "la Côte." The crus used to make this exceptional champagne are Verzenay, Verzy, Beaumont-sur-Vesle, Ay, Avize, Mesnil-sur-Oger, and Cramant. Vinification takes place in wood for 25%. There is no malolactic fermentation. The dosage of this Brut Champagne is 7 grams per liter.

A beautiful, radiant, pale golden yellow color. It features lively bubbles and displays great finesse. The nose reveals vibrant, concentrated aromas of yellow fruits (white peach and mirabelle plum), with hints of hazelnut and roasted almonds. The palate is fresh, generous, and rich, with a silky texture that unveils notes of preserved citrus fruit and hints of spices. The palate emphasizes freshness and precision, culminating in a finish that features subtle woody and saline notes, resulting in a lovely blend of finesse and concentration. Love it! 






Fontaine-Gagnard Batard-Montrachet Grand Cru 2020


Fontaine-Gagnard represents a genuine Burgundian romance. The tale began in the 1980s when Richard Fontaine married Laurence Gagnard. Since 2007, Celine Fontaine has increasingly taken charge of winemaking from her father, leading to a remarkable rise in the quality of the wines in recent years.

Domaine Fontaine-Gagnard has experienced an incredible rise in quality and reputation over the past decade. The wines exhibit fantastic purity and minerality, combined with a delightful weight and richness of fruit. This is a very sophisticated and stylish Domaine producing some of the most coveted wines from Chassagne-Montrachet, showcasing a remarkable intensity of fruit that beautifully conveys their outstanding terroir.

The Batard-Montrachet 2020 is an outstanding wine that combines elegance, refinement, and generosity with complexity and richness. It showcases a captivating pale golden color in the glass. The nose is exuberant and enticing, featuring aromas of white and yellow fruits mingling with buttery and toasted nuances, all enhanced by great minerality. The palate is gorgeous, generous, and creamy, extremely well-balanced and focused, with no harshness whatsoever. It is complemented by that unmistakable waxy mineral sensation that coats the palate from the attack and gently expands through to the seamless, lingering finish.  What a wine! Superb!    






Benjamin Leroux Griotte-Chambertin Grand Cru 2018 (Mag)


Often referred to as the natural heir of Henri Jayer, Benjamin Leroux is one of the discreet rising stars crafting outstanding wines from village to Grand Cru levels, demonstrating a profoundly classic Burgundian style with a delightful, refreshing twist. His wines are classic in that they are not huge powerhouses, overly oaked, or excessively extracted. On the contrary, they blend freshness, elegance, silky texture, focus, and refinement in a soft, precise, and delicate manner.

At the age of 24, Benjamin Leroux assumed winemaking duties at Domaine Comte Armand, stepping in for his mentor, Pascal Marchand. This was a significant challenge for a young winemaker. Nevertheless, his inaugural wines in 1999 were hailed as the highlights of the vintage. Following his tenure at Comte Armand, he shifted his focus to his own winery in Beaune, where he runs a small négociant operation.

To produce his wines, Benjamin Leroux sources grapes (never juice or wine) from his vineyards and those of others, always selecting vineyards that practice over 50% organic viticulture and adhere to specific viticultural and environmental standards. Not one to shy away from challenging traditions, Benjamin Leroux also uses screw caps on some of his entry-level wines, ensuring that those intended for early consumption remain fresh and lively. 

As a Negociant rather than a vineyard owner, Benjamin Leroux's wines are highly sought-after by connoisseurs and sommeliers due to their limited quantities. His balanced, fresh, and versatile wines perfectly pair with all kinds of dishes.     

Benjamin Leroux's Griotte-Chambertin production is quite limited, with only one 450-liter barrel produced in some years (approximately 600 regular 750ml bottles, though often less since he also produces some magnums). This Grand Cru vineyard is among the smallest in Gevrey-Chambertin, with Leroux's vines located in the upper southern section. Leroux's contract for this vineyard concluded with the 2022 vintage, marking it as the last vintage of this wine under his winemaking. 

In 2022, I was fortunate enough to purchase two cases of six magnums of the 2018 vintage. I bought them more by instinct rather than knowledge, as I had heard of him but was not really familiar with his wines at the time, as I had never had the chance to taste them before. I opened two of these magnums for a private dinner back then, and they were the highlights of the night, with guests praising the wine's quality.    

A few days ago, at another private dinner where I opened the wines mentioned in this post, I had the opportunity to open another one of these magnums, and the wine had improved even more over the last three years since I acquired it.  

Leroux's Griotte-Chambertin 2018 in magnum is a masterpiece of elegance and silkiness. In the glass, it shows a discreet, medium-intensity garnet color. The nose is quite charming and unassuming, almost shy yet delivering very "à propos" fresh aromas of "griottes" (wild red cherries) and other red berries, mingling with fresh mineral, hearty, and floral notes. The palate is light and fresh, soft and silky, enhanced by excellent acidity, with an implied elegant complexity and delicate texture, even if not exuberant, inherent to most of Leroux's wines. This Griotte-Chambertin, like most of Leroux's wines, is sharp, precise, focused, and sophisticated. It was even more expressive after 45 minutes of being opened.  Loved it! 

      




Château Haut-Brion Pessac-Léognan 1998


No introduction is needed for this illustrious Chateau, which, as I have expressed so many times on this blog, is my favorite Bordeaux wine. The nose is fragrant, filled with intoxicating aromas of dark fruits and berries, including plum, as well as notes of forest floor and mushroom, mingling with those of oak, cigar, liquorice, and spices, alongside characteristic hints of tar and smoke. The palate reflects the nose’s flavors with greater intensity. It offers a medium to deep, layered, and complex character with a chewy texture, remaining lively and youthful due to its great acidity. It is well-structured with present yet integrated tannins. The lingering finish is earthy and presents tremendous potential for further ageing. This 1998 vintage is one of my favorites from the 90s, which has evolved beautifully over the past decade and promises to stand the test of time for many years to come. After about an hour, it became even more delightful, with additional secondary and tertiary notes, and a lot more licorice. What a beauty!            




Cheers! Santé! 

Dom 

@ledomduvin #ledomduvin #wine #vin #vino #wein @louisroederer_ #louisroederer #champagne  @celinefontainegagnard #fontainegagnard #batardmontrachet @benjaminlerouxwines #benjaminleroux #griottechambertin #burgundy @chateauhautbrion_ #hautbrion #bordeaux #sommelier #sommelierlife #sommlife #tastingnotes #ilovemyjob #lovewine


Unless stated otherwise, all rights reserved ©LeDomduVin 2025, on all the contents above including, but not limited to, photos, pictures, drawings, illustrations, collages, visuals, maps, memes, posts, texts, writings, quotes, notes, tasting notes, descriptions, wine descriptions, definitions, recipes, graphs, tables, and even music and video (when and where applicable).

Wednesday, June 18, 2025

LeDomduVin: Sympathetic Trio






Sympathetic trio






Bruno Paillard N. P. U. (Nec Plus Ultra) Brut 2008


This exclusive champagne, from the exceptional 2008 vintage, is a blend of 50% Chardonnay and 50% Pinot Noir, sourced from Grand Cru vineyards. Beyond its light golden color, it possesses fine bubbles and boasts complex aromas of stone fruits and candied orange peel. The palate is soft, gentle, generous, and ample, coating the mouth nicely with a great texture and concentration, finishing with a long, chalky aftertaste. Loved it!





Jean-Claude Ramonet Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru "Boudriotte" 2018


When it comes to white Burgundy and Chassagne, Ramonet is definitely one of my favorite producers. I was really pleased and surprised by how fresh this "Boudriotte" 2018 was. The robe has a pale golden color with slightly green reflections. The nose is fresh, with enticing notes of pear and citrus rind, mingling with toasted bread and mineral notes. The palate mirrors the nose with elegance, refined texture, excellent structure, balance, vibrancy, and focus, culminating in a lingering mineral finish. Superb!






Chateau Pavie 1er Grand Cru Classe A Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 2016


I had not tried this wine in a long time, and although it was good, it was not as good as I remembered it from previous tastings. Maybe a down phase, but still definitely worth trying!

It was a good thing I opened it about 45 minutes before serving, as the nose was so timid and closed at opening; it definitely needed decanting.

A Blend of 60% Merlot and 40% Cabernet Franc, hailed from the excellent 2016 vintage, it combines freshness, elegance, and complexity in a light way. The robe is dark red, with garnet reflections. The nose expresses aromas of ripe red berries, cherry, and red currant, with floral, pepper, and cinnamon nuances. After the subtle attack, the palate is surprisingly fresh and zesty, rather than fleshy and concentrated, yet balanced and well-structured, with integrated tannins. Although I liked it, I would have loved for it to be more substantial, with less of the Cabernet Franc’s slight green pepper bitterness. Maybe just a down phase, as it still has the potential to age further and improve with time.  



Cheers! Santé!

Dom


@ledomduvin #ledomduvin #wine #vin #vino #wein @champagnebrunopaillard #brunopaillard #champagne #jeanclauderamonet #burgundy @chateaupavieofficiel #chateaupavie #pavie #saintemilion #bordeaux #tastingnotes #sommelier #sommelierlife #sommlife #ilovemyjob #lovewine


Unless stated otherwise, all rights reserved ©LeDomduVin 2025, on all the contents above including, but not limited to, photos, pictures, drawings, illustrations, collages, visuals, maps, memes, posts, texts, writings, quotes, notes, tasting notes, descriptions, wine descriptions, definitions, recipes, graphs, tables, and even music and video (when and where applicable).

Thursday, June 5, 2025

LeDomduVin: Le choix d'un vin / The choice of a wine




Le choix d'un vin dépend du moment, du contexte, de la compagnie, de l'occasion, de l'endroit, du temps, de la saison, de l'humeur et/ou du plat qu'il accompagne 😁👍🍷




The choice of a wine depends on the moment, the context, the company, the occasion, the place, the weather, the season, the mood, and/or the dish it accompanies 😁👍🍷


Cheers! Santé! 

Dom

@ledomduvin #ledomduvin #wine #vin #vino #wein #quote #lechoixdunvin #thechoiceofawine #sommelier #sommelierlife #sommlife #lovewine #lescreationsadom #lesmemesadom #lesimagesadom #lesquotationsadom



Unless stated otherwise, all rights reserved ©LeDomduVin 2025, on all the contents above including, but not limited to, photos, pictures, drawings, illustrations, collages, visuals, maps, memes, posts, texts, writings, quotes, notes, tasting notes, descriptions, wine descriptions, definitions, recipes, graphs, tables, and even music and video (when and where applicable).

Wednesday, May 28, 2025

LeDomduVin: Challenges of the Wine Industry

 




Challenges of the Wine Industry


It is no news that the wine industry has faced numerous challenges over the past decades, particularly in the last five years (post-COVID).

Discussing the subject with various people in the wine industry and reading more posts and articles over the last six to eight months inspired me to create this image/collage (header) and share my views on these challenges on my blog as well.

Many environmental, demographic, and economic factors influence these challenges, and they vary from one country to the next. Because going case by case would be too long, I will provide further details on these challenges for the wine industry as a whole, meaning generally speaking, and more specifically for the vineyards located in the northern hemisphere (as I'm more familiar with them).   

Vineyards located in what we call the "New World" (the USA, South America, South Africa, Australia, New Zealand, etc.) are also affected by similar disrupted weather patterns, changes, and problems; yet, they have different rules that permit the use of equipment to prevent or combat these issues, which may not be authorized in Europe or France, for example.   

Among all of them, there are 5 main recurring challenges at the core of this global situation that have worsened over the past five years.    

These five key challenges impacting the wine industry include environmental challenges, economic shifts, demographic and preference changes, price fluctuations, and declining production. Climate change poses a significant threat to grape cultivation, while economic factors, such as declining sales and shifting consumer preferences, disrupt the market. Therefore, prices are unavoidably impacted while production declines for various reasons. 

Let's delve into these challenges to gain a deeper understanding of why and how they affect the entire wine industry, and ultimately, what it means for the future.  


The 5 main challenges are related to:

  1. Climate change
  2. Decreasing sales
  3. Declining consumption (due to changes in demographics and preferences)
  4. Prices (shifting/fluctuations)
  5. Production decline






1. Climate Change


The primary challenge facing the wine industry is climate change. Rising temperatures and shifting weather patterns, including longer and colder winters extending into spring and drier or wetter summers and falls, threaten traditional wine-growing regions. 

After dormancy during winter, the vine's growing season typically spans from spring to fall. During this time, the grapevines undergo several key stages: budding, flowering, veraison (fruit development), ripening, and eventually, harvest. 

Spring (Late Winter/Early Spring - March/April): Budding

Vines begin to come out of dormancy as temperatures rise, and bud break occurs, marking the beginning of the vine's annual growth cycle. Vines start to wake up and release new shoots from their buds. If the low winter temperatures persist for too long, they can affect and delay budding by increasing frost damage.  


Spring/Summer (Mid Spring-Early Summer - May/June): Flowering

In the Northern Hemisphere, flowering typically occurs around May. Flower clusters appear, and pollination takes place, resulting in the formation of small green grapes later in June. If flowering happens too early due to warmer temperatures, it can increase the risk of frost damage. 

Freezing temperatures damage the plant's tissues, especially the young, tender green shoots and buds. This damage can lead to a reduction in yield, loss of buds and shoots, and even damage to the trunk and cordons. This has been a recurring issue in France over the past 5 to 15 years.

In Bordeaux, for example, recent years have seen significant recurrent vine damage due to frost. The most recent severe frost was in April 2017, causing widespread damage and a 40% drop in the harvest. Estimates suggest that up to 70% of vineyards experienced some damage, with some suffering losses of 80% or more. The frost resulted in a 40% decrease in the 2017 harvest, with estimated financial losses of € 1.6 billion.   

Different techniques are allowed to warm up the vineyards to prevent frost damage when lower temperatures are expected to dip below the freezing level during the night and early morning. 

In recent years, winegrowers have employed a variety of techniques to combat frost damage, including traditional methods such as candles and heaters, as well as more advanced techniques like wind machines, helicopters, and even sprinklers. While some methods are more sustainable, others are more energy-intensive or expensive.  

Burning candles is one of the most common techniques. It creates a slight temperature rise and disrupts the settling of cold air, preventing frost formation. However, it only works until a certain level of cold is reached, raising the temperature in the air by just 1 or 2 degrees. As a result, it may not be very efficient if the frost worsens or lingers. Additionally, it can become quite expensive if the frost lasts. 

Candles also require significant manpower to arrange them in rows within the vineyards. They are typically spaced 2-3 meters apart and positioned in alternate rows. Depending on the size of the parcels or vineyards being protected, this can result in increased unplanned labor and equipment costs.  

Like candles, electric or fossil-fueled heaters can increase the temperature of the air around the vines. However, unlike candles, they cannot cover the entire parcel or vineyard, so a certain number of them placed strategically is necessary. Yet, they are more expensive and less sustainable than candles and may require constant supervision, which can lead to increased unplanned labor and equipment costs.     

Other techniques used mainly by the wealthiest Chateaux and Domaines include wind machines that stir up the air, mixing warmer air from above with the cooler air near the ground, preventing frost. Some also use helicopters that use their blades to stir up the air, similar to wind machines, but they are expensive to operate and require significant capital investment. 

Some may use sprinklers, which consist of applying water to the vines to create a layer of ice, which in turn protects the buds by releasing latent heat as the water freezes. Yet, it might prove quite costly in the end, considering the large quantity of water required and the associated costs.   

Anti-frost covers also exist; these covers, placed on trellising wire, create a barrier between the vines and freezing air. However, they are not widely used; for instance, in France, they are prohibited. A small number of growers and winemakers, such as Loïc Pasquet, have been advocating for the legalization of the use of these anti-frost covers for several years, which could provide a more sustainable and cost-effective alternative.   

However, regardless of the techniques used, they always imply unplanned extra labor costs, as additional personnel are often required to apply these techniques, weakening the growers' and producers' financials that could have been used for other needs, such as repairs to vineyards and cellars, new projects, or expansions.   


Summer (Late Spring and Summer - Late June, July, August to early September): Veraison and ripening

Grapes begin to grow and develop, undergoing a process called veraison, during which they change color and start to accumulate sugar. 

Over the last decade, more frequent rainfall, humid conditions, violent storms, and moderate temperatures have increased the risk of mildew, oidium (powdery mildew), and other vine diseases, as well as flash flooding and soil erosion.   

Hail and violent storms can inflict significant damage on vineyards, leading to reduced yields, compromised grape quality, and potentially long-term vine health issues. The severity of the damage can vary depending on the timing and intensity of the storm, as well as the stage of vine development. 

Hail can knock grapes off the vines, bruise or rupture grape skins, or even shatter the fruit, leading to immediate crop loss and reduced yields. It can also strip leaves from the vines, reduce photosynthetic capacity, and disrupt the vine's ability to produce energy for growth, thus delaying fruit maturation. 

Damage to leaves, shoots, and fruiting buds can impact the vine's ability to produce future crops. In extreme cases, hailstorms can damage vines so severely that they may not recover, resulting in the loss of the vine. 

On the other hand, violent storms can damage shoots and trunks, potentially leading to infection by bacteria such as Agrobacterium, which can cause crown gall disease, especially in younger vines. Damage to grape skins can lead to rot, reducing grape quality and, consequently, impacting wine quality and eventual ageing potential. 

Sudden heavy rainstorms and intense hailstorms have become more frequent, even affecting areas where they were previously rare, sometimes destroying a high percentage of the crop. 

Therefore, on top of fearing the frost bites of late March and April, growers and producers now face more recurrent and more frequent hail storms occurring usually in May and June, followed by heavy rainfall during the summer months. And unfortunately, there is nothing they can do to prevent these natural disasters.     

Managing hail and storm damage can be very costly, as it often requires growers and producers to prune damaged vines and address disease outbreaks. Proper irrigation and fertilization can help damaged vines recover and regain their health. Implementing pest control measures can help prevent further damage from pests. 

Some vineyards may choose to invest in protective measures, such as nets, to reduce hail damage. However, these can be costly, require extra labor, and, like the nets used for frost protection, may not always be permitted in certain regions. Others might insure their vineyards against hail damage, which can help mitigate financial losses. Whatever methods are employed, they represent yet another unexpected expense. 


Disrupting weather patterns, such as sudden hail and storms, is a problem; however, the ever-increasing temperatures (and eventually, air, water and soil pollution, and deforestation) of the past two decades have also led to major droughts and water scarcity in some regions, which in turn impact grape growth, yields and quality.  

The ideal growing season for wine grapes is characterized by a balance of warmth, sunlight, and rainfall, which ensures healthy vine growth and the production of high-quality grapes for winemaking. Conditions that are too cold and humid can cause irreversible damage, but so can excessive sunlight, heat, and high temperatures.  

Heat stress in vineyards can cause significant damage, impacting vine health, fruit quality, and yield. High temperatures can disrupt photosynthesis, slow sugar accumulation, and lead to sunburn and shriveling of berries. Extreme heat can also reduce berry acidity, affecting flavor profiles, and even cause berry death. 

Heat stress can also cause leaf loss and damage to the clusters, ultimately affecting vine health and future growth. Excessive heat can exacerbate soil moisture deficits and water shortages, potentially resulting in drought stress if adequate irrigation is not maintained. 

Growers and producers have limited options to predict or prevent these natural disasters, which are often triggered by excessive rain or heat, except by monitoring the weather forecast and planning ahead through careful vineyard management. 

Vineyard management that utilizes weather predictions involves proactively adapting practices based on forecasted weather conditions to mitigate potential risks and optimize crop health. This includes monitoring temperature, rainfall, humidity, and wind speed, then using this information to adjust irrigation, canopy management, and pest control strategies. 


Autumn (Late Summer/Early Fall): ripening and harvest

Grapes ripen, and winemakers decide on the optimal time for harvest, which generally occurs in the fall, from late August to mid-October, depending on the grape varieties and their ripening pace.   

Various grape varieties have distinct ripening requirements, which means some can be harvested earlier or later in the season. In Bordeaux, for example, for the reds, Merlot ripens faster than Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon, so harvest time differs depending on the grape variety, the level of ripeness, and the weather. The same applies to whites as Semillon ripens earlier than Sauvignon Blanc. 

During the ripening and harvest seasons in vineyards, problems can arise from weather, pests, diseases, and uneven ripening, which can impact grape quality and yield. These issues can lead to reduced flavor, potential spoilage, and challenges in managing the harvest itself. 

The disruptive weather patterns of recent years have led to heavy or excessive rainfall during the ripening and harvest seasons in some regions, which can cause berries to swell, diluting flavors and potentially cracking their skins, making them vulnerable to spoilage. Well-drained soil is crucial for healthy grapevines. 

On the other hand, heat stress due to extreme heat and heat waves can also occur during harvest, damaging leaves and berries, reducing sugar production, and attracting pests. 

The unpredictable weather, temperature fluctuations, droughts, and rainfall that some regions have experienced over the past decade have disrupted the ripening process, making it difficult to predict optimal harvest times, which sometimes requires multiple passes in the vineyards.   

Facing these challenges, vineyards are more susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and downy mildew, which can damage grapes and lead to reduced yield and quality. Grapevine pests can inflict significant harm and diminish the quality of the grapes. As previously mentioned, water-stressed vines can be more vulnerable to pests and diseases. 

Also, some grape varieties exhibit varying levels of genetic predisposition to uneven ripening. Therefore, if they are not planted or grown in adapted soils with the ideal climate and environment, they may face challenges that prevent some grapes from ripening evenly, complicating the timing and delaying the harvest. A few days may not seem significant, but if grapes, and consequently parcels, are ripening unevenly, the harvest could be delayed by a week or two, depending on the weather and, of course, the ripening pace.    

Differences in sun exposure, temperature, and airflow within the vineyard, resulting from geographic location and environment, as well as the proximity of a mass of water, forests, roads or buildings, can also lead to microclimate (lack of sun, uneven air flow, mist, difference in temperatures, air pollution, etc...) and thus uneven ripening.

Fortunately, winemakers can influence the ripeness of grapes by adjusting harvest timing, which impacts the final style and taste of the wine, based on their preferences, the appellation requirements, and the quality of the vintage. 

Understandably, the best vintages are typically the least problematic, characterized by an ideal growing season for wine grapes. This season features a balance of warmth (throughout the budding and flowering), sunlight (during the ripening and harvest), and rainfall (in spring, along with occasional summer showers and/or a few weeks before harvest), all of which ensure healthy vine growth and the development of high-quality grapes for winemaking. 

After harvest, the vines enter dormancy for the winter, while the winemaker dedicates attention to vinification and crafting the wine.    


Changing, adjusting, and adapting - The birth of new Wine Regions


Based on the challenges faced by growers and winemakers in the vineyards (cited above), climate change is affecting vineyard growth and conditions, grape yield, composition, and wine quality. As a result, the practices in the vineyards, the types of grape varieties used, and the geography of wine production are also evolving. 

Producers are adapting to the effects of climate change by adjusting their practices in the vineyards across several key areas. This includes switching to more drought-resistant grape varieties and rootstocks, modifying canopy management, and adjusting harvest times. They are also exploring new irrigation methods, considering traditional techniques, and even expanding into new regions that are becoming suitable for viticulture. 

In Bordeaux, for example (being a native of Bordeaux, it is the region I know best), growers and winemakers, led by notable figures like Loic Pasquet of Liber Patter and Jean-Baptiste Duquesne of Chateau Cazabone, have fought the appellation authorities for years to incorporate additional grape varieties into the authorized selection: transitioning to drought-resistant varieties and rootstocks, including some from warmer regions and some that were previously existing but prohibited by the appellation rules.   

In 2019, producers of Bordeaux AOC and Bordeaux Supérieur sought approval for certain varieties aimed at alleviating the impacts of climate change while preserving the essence of Bordeaux wines. Some of the traits of the listed grapes included high natural acidity, robust structure, intense aromas, and effective resistance to certain vine diseases, such as mildew and grey rot.

The French national appellation authority, INAO, approved six new grape varieties to help Bordeaux wine producers adapt to climate change. The approved varieties include four red grapes—Touriga Nacional, Marselan, Castets, and Arinarnoa—and two white grapes, Alvarinho and Liliorila. Petit Manseng was also suggested but was excluded from the final list.

According to Bordeaux’s wine council, the CIVB, the planting of these varieties commenced in 2021, with a strict rule that these varieties can collectively make up only 5% of a producer’s vineyard area and 10% of the final wine blend, to preserve the taste and style of Bordeaux. As most Bordeaux top appellations have not accepted these new grape varieties as part of their blends, the wines made from them can only be sold where authorized as Bordeaux AOC and Bordeaux Supérieur AOC, or as a Vin de France AOC.     

Other regions and appellations in France, which are also experiencing the consequences of climate change, are gradually exploring the possibilities and may eventually incorporate grape varieties previously prohibited in their wines. Some regions previously suited for other types of agriculture are now also emerging as new wine regions and appellations.     

For example, Alsace, known for its white wines (ranging from dry to sweet), is now catching up to Burgundy by becoming the new region where Pinot Noir excels.  

Regions such as Île-de-France, Brittany (historically in Val de Rance and the Presqu'île of Rhuys), and certain areas in Normandy and Hauts-de-France, where vines and winemaking existed in the past but have not produced wine for decades, are experiencing a renewed interest in viticulture. Additionally, some relatively discreet areas, such as Jura and Savoy, are witnessing growth and gaining international recognition for their unique wines.  

Several new and emerging wine regions are appearing across Europe, driven by climate change, innovation, and a renewed interest in local terroir. These regions are producing wines of interest and diversity.

Northern Europe:
Countries such as the UK, England, Belgium, Denmark, and the Baltic states are experiencing an increase in the production of sparkling and white wines due to warmer temperatures and suitable soil conditions. The UK, particularly in areas like Kent, Sussex, and Hampshire, is emerging as a significant player in the sparkling wine market. 


Central and Eastern Europe:
The western and central regions of Ukraine, including Lviv, Ternopil, and Khmelnytskyi, are experiencing a resurgence in winemaking, with a focus on aromatic white varieties such as Riesling and Pinot Gris. Romania is also an under-the-radar region with a rich history and a diverse array of grape varieties. 

Germany:
Wine production has expanded to all federal states, including Lower Saxony and Schleswig-Holstein, showcasing new opportunities in the north and the cultivation of new varieties in the south. 


These are just a few examples, but with climate change, new regions in the northern hemisphere that were not necessarily suited for winemaking and where it was probably unthinkable to grow grapes only 20 years ago due to their geographic location and types of weather are now emerging, competing with the established wine regions that are currently suffering the consequences of climate change and may, over time, become unsuitable for grape growing at some point. Let's hope not. Time will tell.  


That's it for this lengthy chapter on climate change, yet it was essential to discuss all the major issues a vineyard may face. I could write more about the problems related to climate change, but this already provides a good overview of these issues. Plus, we still have four more extensive chapters to address the other four challenges facing the wine industry.     








2. Decreasing Sales


Wine sales have been declining due to a combination of factors, including economic pressures, shifting consumer preferences, and an increasing awareness of health concerns. Economically, rising inflation and high production costs are making wine less affordable for many consumers, leading to reduced discretionary spending (meaning money that individuals or businesses spend on items that are not essential for basic needs or operations). 

Additionally, shifting consumer preferences, including a move towards moderation and alternative beverage categories, are impacting wine consumption. The various tariffs and other taxes applied to wine importing in some countries have also contributed to the decrease in sales. Lastly, but not least, the surge in wine production over the past 30 years has increased the number of countries producing wine, thereby increasing competition and diluting sales as customers face an ever-growing array of wines from more countries than ever before.     

The primary economic factor responsible for the decline in wine sales is global inflation, particularly over the last five years (following the COVID-19 pandemic). 

Global inflation is a complex issue with multiple causes, generally attributed to a combination of supply and demand factors. Supply shocks, such as disruptions to production caused by natural disasters, geopolitical events, or high oil prices, for example, can increase costs for businesses, ultimately leading to higher prices for consumers. Demand shocks, such as expansionary monetary policies or increased government spending, can also fuel inflation by creating excess demand.  

The inflation of recent years, driven by geopolitical events (such as wars), economic and financial crises, tariffs, taxes, supply chain disruptions, and other factors, has led to a rise in the cost of living. As a result, discretionary spending on wine has become less attractive, as consumers prioritize essential goods.

The second economic factor is undoubtedly the production costs. Increased input prices, including energy, raw materials, and transportation, have burdened winemakers, potentially leading to higher prices and reduced profitability. These factors have gradually led to growers and producers facing enormous difficulties, often resulting in bankruptcy and the uprooting of hectares of vines in many regions.  

Numerous factors, including rising production costs, increasing input expenses, fluctuating international trade, and the demand for sustainable practices, have contributed to higher expenses for grapes, labor, energy, and logistics, which in turn impact profitability and wine pricing. 

The third economic factor relates to supply chain issues. The COVID-19 pandemic, along with recent geopolitical events in various countries, higher tariffs, and taxes, has disrupted global supply chains, affecting the availability of materials necessary for bottling and export, which has also led to increased prices. 










3. Declining wine consumption (due to changes in demographics and preferences)


The inflation, the rise in the cost of living, and the increased prices have driven consumers away, but the decrease in wine sales is also associated with a decline in consumption. Wine consumption, which has long been a part of the culture and traditions in many countries worldwide, especially in Europe, has become less appealing to a broader audience with different priorities.  

Several factors contribute to the declining popularity of wine, including its perceived high cost, an outdated industry image, the rise of alternative beverages and lifestyle choices, and growing health concerns. Younger generations, in particular, are less inclined to drink wine, citing factors such as the cost of living, the ease of consuming alternatives like beer, which are typically less expensive, lower in alcohol, and easier to access, or even non-alcoholic beverages to stay healthy, and the "elitist" reputation of the wine industry. 

Declining wine consumption primarily results from a generational shift in consumer preferences and increased awareness of health and lifestyle issues. As for everything else, the problem lies in the excessiveness, not the moderation.  

Wine has had a long history as a beverage of choice for the past two millennia, and it was also considered a medicinal agent. Some studies suggest that moderate consumption may offer potential benefits for specific health conditions, including a reduced risk of heart disease, stroke, and certain types of cancer. However, it's crucial to remember that excessive alcohol intake carries significant risks, and these benefits are not universal. 

Until the 1950s, children in France often had wine served with their lunch at school. This practice involved children under 14 being provided with wine, a tradition rooted in the cultural and health beliefs of the era. However, in 1956, concerns about the impact of alcohol on children led to a ban on serving wine in schools to those under 14. In 1981, alcohol was banned entirely from all French schools, marking a significant shift away from this practice. 

In France and Western Europe in general, wine has always been an integral part of the culture and traditions, an everyday alcoholic beverage consumed at both lunch and dinner. The generations of my great-grandfather and grandfather drank every day of the week. 

The generation of my father, in the 1950s and 1960s, and mine, in the late 1970s and 1980s, witnessed a rise in wine production and consumption. Although health issues related to alcohol consumption were more extensively studied and established, this did not hinder the increase in production and consumption, which grew globally.     

In France, despite awareness of health issues and other consequences, heavy consumption persisted. This led to the "French Paradox," introduced in 1992. The paradox stems from the observation that, despite a diet rich in saturated fats and cholesterol, France has relatively lower rates of coronary heart disease (CHD) compared to other Western countries. It sparked interest in the potential cardiovascular benefits of moderate red wine consumption.

Being healthy while following a diet high in saturated fat and cholesterol, along with consuming wine, was a contradiction for the rest of the world. However, for the French, this was normal and deeply rooted in their culture and traditions. This observation sparked further research into the effects of alcohol and wine on health. 

Multiple factors have been proposed to clarify this phenomenon. Moderate consumption of red wine, particularly noted for its antioxidant properties, such as resveratrol, is thought to confer cardioprotective benefits. Additionally, a typical French diet, characterized by smaller portions of nutritious foods and balanced meals featuring fish, lean meats, an emphasis on vegetables and fruits, along with olive oil, may help reduce the risk of coronary heart disease (CHD). The French habit of eating mindfully—taking the time to enjoy and savor their meals—can also positively influence overall health. Some studies suggest that the folate found in fruits and vegetables may also be a contributing factor to the French Paradox. 

While red wine consumption has been a prominent aspect of the discussion, more recent research has cast some doubt on its primary role in explaining the paradox. However, it's important to note that the French paradox is not a definitive statement asserting that red wine is a cure-all for CHD. It reflects a more complex interplay of factors. 

Ultimately, moderate consumption of red wine, combined with a healthy lifestyle, smaller and more balanced portions, and a more relaxed eating environment, may offer some benefits and define this paradox that the French are so proud of. 

My generation, Gen X (born 1965-1979), which includes people between 45 and 60 years old, still consumes decent quantities of wine. This is less true for Gen Y (born 1980-1994) and definitely not the case for Gen Z (born 1995-2009), and especially Gen Alpha (born 2010-2024), who are legally too young to drink (even if we all know some do).  
 
Another reason for the decline in wine consumption may also stem from the fact that younger generations have witnessed various health and behavioral issues in their parents and grandparents. After all, the image of wine (or alcohol in general) is often associated with sharing fun moments and memories with others; however, when consumed in excess, it is also linked to domestic and public violence as well as inappropriate behaviors toward women and children. 

As a result, younger generations (Millennials and Gen Z) have adopted moderation and "Better-for-Me" choices, opting not to follow the same path and instead prioritizing their health and wellness. This shift has led to moderation in wine and other alcohol consumption, along with a growing preference for non-alcoholic or low-sugar alternatives, such as hard seltzers, canned cocktails, and even legal marijuana as a substitute over the past two decades.  

Wellness as a primary concern for wine consumption began to emerge in the late 20th century and early 21st century. This shift was driven by factors like increased awareness of the health effects of alcohol, growing interest in moderation and "sober curious" trends, and a greater focus on overall health and wellness lifestyle choices. 

Younger consumers seek more convenience and unique drinking experiences, which some may perceive as not fully satisfied by traditional wine, reminiscent of what they consider "outdated" habits of older generations.    

They are also much more aware of the potential health and behavioral risks associated with alcohol consumption, including cancer and other health issues, which is influencing their choices. Public health initiatives, such as those promoting cancer warning labels on alcohol and the recent non-alcohol campaigns that have been mushrooming everywhere, especially since COVID, can further discourage consumption. 

Increased competition from other alcohol categories, such as spirits, mixers, hard seltzers, canned cocktails, and even non-alcoholic options, has diverted some consumer demand away from wine, contributing to the decline in wine consumption. 

The legalization of marijuana in some areas has also been cited as a factor, as it provides an alternative inebriant for consumers seeking a non-alcohol-based experience. 

All of these factors have undoubtedly contributed to the decline in wine consumption, but inflation and rising prices have also significantly slowed wine sales and, consequently, consumption.   






4. Prices (shifting/fluctuations)


The cost of a bottle of wine varies depending on several factors, including:

- The initial cost of the wine (production cost: grapes, barrels, labor, glass, cork, capsule, labels, overhead, others, etc)

- Packaging and shipping

- Excise/alcohol duty

- Importer/distributor margin

- Retailer/restaurant margin

- Vat

- The intrinsic, consumption, and/or collectible value

- Any additional fees, taxes, or tariffs applied depending on the country's rules, regulations, and laws

Many other factors contribute to the cost and price of a wine, such as...



5. Production decline



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Cheers! Santé!

Dom


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