The grape harvest of 2016 in Champagne reflects the region’s traditional unpredictability, where uncertainty and surprise dominate the season with a mild, wet winter and a cool, rainy spring that brought frost and mildew, significantly reducing the harvest. The summer dried the vineyards but led to water stress and further crop loss. Despite this, grape ripening proceeded well, especially for Meuniers and Pinots Noirs. The harvest, beginning on September 17, resulted in a fine crop with perfect sanitary conditions and a yield of 11,000 kg/ha. The wines have great potential, with Meuniers offering fruit and tension, Pinots Noirs showing generous fruit and exotic notes, and Chardonnays presenting fresh citrus expressions. This tale of sublimation begins with a resolution: Grand Vintage 2016 expresses grace and peace, emerging from a turbulent harvest year after six years of maturation.
