1998 Rhone

A marvellous vintage for the Rhône Valley, with the Southern Rhône in particular producing its finest wines to date since the legendary 1990 vintage.

The Northern Rhône witnessed severe frosts on April 13-14, and in Côte-Rôtie temperatures fell to as low as minus 5 degrees. Consequently, yields were reduced by as much as 50% in some appellations. The summer was very hot and very dry and the grapes were harvested in perfect condition. The wines display very good intensity of fruit, possess well-integrated tannins and have the structure and concentration to reward extended cellaring.

In the Southern Rhône growing conditions were close to ideal, with a baking hot summer being followed by welcome rains at the beginning of September. Sugar levels were very high, come harvest time, with all major grape varieties ripening well. The wines are rich in fruit, possess super-ripe tannins and are wonderfully harmonious and well balanced.