Vintage

1998

Balanced

A record-sized crop that aged better than expected

Widely declared

The wettest July in 30 years, the hottest August, then September rain that swelled the berries. A huge crop, variable quality, and Chardonnay that turned out exceptional.

The harvest

Picking beganAbout 12 September

Yield 12,926 kg/ha and 332 million bottles, the largest marketable volume on record. 40 °C in August, with 5–10 per cent sunburn. Potential alcohol 9.8 per cent, acidity 8.1 g/l.

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