Three visits in Chateauneuf, 08s, 07s, 01s and more - first day on our Southern Rhone Tour

Starting running today with three visits in Chateauneuf: domaine Fontavin, Ogier, and Pere Caboche. Two women winemakers and one big group winery. Interesting mix!

There are plenty of things going on in the vineyards, harvesting is in full speed, or at least almost. Quite a few harvest workers picking grapes. Can't be the most fun of jobs, considering that the grapes are barely above ankle height. Lots of grenache being picked. Tiny grapes in small bunches.

This year will be good, fingers crossed for the remainder of the harvest, but it will be small. Some growers were hit hard by colure (bunches where only some grapes develop), so quantity may be 30% below normal.

Tasted some good wines: lightish and fruity 2008s, more substantial 2007s, a nicely matured 2001.

Wish you were here!