Generally a satisfactory vintage in the Loire Valley. A wet winter in most areas was followed by sunny weather in May and June, resulting in excellent flowering conditions. The remainder of the summer was hot and dry with temperatures higher than those in 2000 and reminiscent of the 1989 and 1990 growing seasons. In Sancerre and Pouilly-Fumé cooler weather in September slowed down the ripening process but warm weather in October led to the Sauvignon Blancs and Pinot Noirs ripening fully. Similar weather patterns ensued in Anjou-Saumur - ";As a result, growth did not happen along the year when it should have happened,"; said vigneron Nicolas Joly, proprietor of Coulée de Serrant. ";This latter growth has resulted in a high level of acidity with a half a point lower [alcohol than normal], which I have not seen since '93."; Domaine Charles Joguet, the leading Chinon producer reported yields of less than 3 tons per acre, lower than normal. ";The climate was far more favourable than it had been the previous three years,"; said Alain Delaunay, manager of Joguet. ";Despite a few moderate showers, an especially warm and sunny September contributed to an optimal maturity.";