2016 harvest
on 25 January 2017
After 2014 was characterized by heavy rainfall and, by contrast, 2015 had almost no rainfall and higher summer temperatures than average, with 2016 we have returned to more a regular and extremely positive vintage for the cultivation of the vine.
The 2016 vintage is characterized by a long vegetative cycle. Signs of the vegetative cycle being extended first appeared at the beginning of the season, when mild temperatures and low rainfall in January and early February confirmed the trend that had already been seen during the first part of the winter. From the end of February throughout March, on the other hand, the temperatures dropped and there was plenty of rain, providing the soil with good reserves of water, although less than was recorded the previous year.
Early spring recorded higher temperatures than average, giving rise to an anticipated phenological development, but this slowed in May when temperatures were below the average.
The “late” cold led to a delay in the restarting of the vegetative cycle which can be estimated at around ten days for all the varietals compared to 2015.
The summer season started slowly, and then remained unchanged, except for a few thunderstorms which also brought hail to parts of Piedmont.
We started the harvest on September 13th and ended on October 19th. The harvest period was characterized by warm weather, with a large temperature difference between day and night. These factors dried the bunches after the periodic showers we experienced and also favored the flavor development of the grapes.
The white grapes present excellent aromas and good acidity, due to the fact that during the warm period there have been no peaks over 35°C, in contrast to 2015.
The long period of good weather encouraged the accumulation of sugars in the black grapes: in particular Barbera acquired very good sugar content, well supported by the acidity typical of the grape.
The climatic conditions during the harvest period also gave Nebbiolo excellent ripeness, with cold early in the morning and the subsequent temperature rise during the day maturing the tannins of Nebbiolo in the best way: the finished wines should last and improve well over time.
Concluding, in 2016 we can expect wines characterized by a good balance between all the elements, with excellent flavors and structure. We can therefore expect a vintage featuring qualities which will be talked about for a long time to come.