Gaja Barolo Sperss 2018

600 mm of rain fell from November 2016 to April 2017, thus creating the ideal water supply for the growing season, which, combined with the warm second half of March (average temperatures of 30- 35°C), led to an early bud break of 15 days. During spring, our vineyards in Barolo also suffered a bit from frost, but luckily, no hailstorm occurred. The hot summer was more humid than in Barbaresco, with 40 mm of rain falling on September 2nd, which decreased temperatures. It has been providential to reach a full ripeness of grapes, even if slightly irregular. Overall, 2017 was a year of thermal stress, firstly due to the spring frosts and secondly due to the warm summer temperatures. Despite these thermal and water stresses, the vines adapted optimally to these extreme conditions by decreasing the size of their canopy, bunches, and berries. The vines have naturally produced a lower quantity; the drop in production has been estimated at around 30%. The grapes increased their concentration and developed thicker skins, higher acidity and tannins, intense aromas, and flavours and colours without reaching excessive levels of potential alcohol. Generally speaking, the 2017 vintage has created both red and white wines with surprising freshness.