Weather conditions in 1989 were exceptional, almost ideal. The winter, sunny and dry but as cold as the average over the last 28 years, enabled the vines to rest.

Spring was warm and humid, and the vegetation cycle begin around 8 April, eight days earlier than the average. Flowering took place evenly from 20 May to 7 June, 15 days sooner than the average and the earliest for 45 years.

A warm and dry June was followed by equally warm but more humid weather in July. August continued hot and sunny, but a few welcome stormy showers ensured that the vines were well watered. Veraison took place evenly across each variety and each parcel. Under these conditions, the 1989 harvest was the century’s earliest.