When it comes to wine, the vintage year is a crucial factor in determining the quality, character, and overall appeal of a wine. Two recent vintages that have garnered significant attention from wine enthusiasts and critics alike are 2016 and 2017. Both years have their unique strengths and weaknesses, making it challenging to definitively declare one as the better year for wine. In this article, we’ll delve into the specifics of each vintage, exploring the climatic conditions, grape varieties, and wine styles that define them.
The 2016 Vintage: A Year of Balance and Elegance
The 2016 vintage is often described as a “dream vintage” by winemakers and critics. The growing season was marked by near-perfect weather conditions, with a moderate winter, a warm and dry spring, and a sunny summer with minimal rainfall. These conditions allowed grapevines to ripen slowly and evenly, resulting in wines with excellent balance, structure, and flavor.
Climatic Conditions
The 2016 growing season was characterized by:
- A mild winter with adequate rainfall, which replenished soil moisture and set the stage for healthy vine growth.
- A warm and dry spring, which promoted even budbreak and rapid vine development.
- A sunny summer with moderate temperatures, allowing for optimal ripening and flavor development.
These ideal conditions resulted in grapes that were ripe, healthy, and bursting with flavor.
Grape Varieties
The 2016 vintage is particularly notable for its success with a range of grape varieties, including:
| Grape Variety | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Chardonnay | Ripe, tropical fruit flavors, crisp acidity, and a rich, buttery texture. |
| Cabernet Sauvignon | Dark fruit flavors, firm tannins, and a robust structure, with hints of spice and tobacco. |
| Pinot Noir | Delicate, red fruit flavors, silky tannins, and a subtle, earthy complexity. |
These varieties benefited from the ideal growing conditions, resulting in wines that are both complex and approachable.
The 2017 Vintage: A Year of Power and Intensity
In contrast to the balanced and elegant 2016 vintage, the 2017 vintage is marked by power, intensity, and a touch of wildness. The growing season was characterized by extreme weather conditions, including:
Climatic Conditions
The 2017 growing season was marked by:
- A winter of record-breaking rainfall, which replenished soil moisture but also led to widespread flooding.
- A scorching hot and dry summer, with temperatures soaring above 100°F (38°C) for extended periods.
- A devastating series of wildfires in the fall, which affected some of the world’s most renowned wine regions.
These extreme conditions resulted in wines that are bold, full-bodied, and packed with flavor.
Grape Varieties
The 2017 vintage is particularly notable for its success with grape varieties that thrive in challenging conditions, including:
| Grape Variety | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Syrah/Shiraz | Dense, dark fruit flavors, spicy undertones, and a robust, full-bodied texture. |
| Zinfandel | Ripe, fruit-forward flavors, moderate tannins, and a hint of sweetness. |
These varieties benefited from the intense growing conditions, resulting in wines that are bold, rich, and unapologetically full-bodied.
Regional Performance
Both the 2016 and 2017 vintages saw standout performances from various wine regions around the world.
Europe
- Burgundy: The 2016 vintage saw exceptional Chardonnay and Pinot Noir from this renowned region, with wines displaying complexity, elegance, and aging potential.
- Bordeaux: The 2017 vintage was marked by powerful, full-bodied wines from Bordeaux, with Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot blends showcasing depth, structure, and aging potential.
The Americas
- Napa Valley: The 2016 vintage saw exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay from Napa Valley, with wines displaying balance, complexity, and aging potential.
- Sonoma County: The 2017 vintage was marked by standout Pinot Noir and Zinfandel from Sonoma County, with wines showcasing ripe fruit flavors, moderate tannins, and excellent value.
Conclusion
So, is 2016 or 2017 a better year for wine? The answer ultimately depends on personal taste preferences and the style of wine you’re looking for. If you prefer elegant, balanced wines with excellent aging potential, the 2016 vintage may be the better choice. However, if you prefer bold, full-bodied wines with intense flavors and a touch of power, the 2017 vintage is likely to impress.
Ultimately, both vintages offer exceptional quality and diversity, making them a great starting point for any wine enthusiast.
Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or just starting to explore the world of wine, the 2016 and 2017 vintages are sure to delight and intrigue. So, go ahead, explore these remarkable vintages, and discover the perfect bottle to suit your taste.
What is the ideal way to store wine from 2016 and 2017?
The ideal way to store wine from 2016 and 2017 is in a cool, dark place with a consistent temperature between 55°F to 58°F (13°C to 14°C). This will slow down the aging process, preserving the wine’s flavor and aroma. It’s also essential to keep the bottles away from direct sunlight, as UV rays can cause the wine to degrade over time.
In addition to temperature and light control, it’s crucial to maintain a humid environment, ideally between 50% to 70% relative humidity. This will prevent the corks from drying out, which can lead to oxidation and spoilage. Finally, it’s recommended to store the bottles on their sides to keep the corks moist and prevent them from coming into contact with the wine.
What are the key differences between the 2016 and 2017 vintages in terms of weather conditions?
The 2016 vintage was marked by a wet winter, followed by a dry and warm spring, which led to an early budbreak. The summer was hot and dry, resulting in high sugar levels and low acidity in the grapes. In contrast, the 2017 vintage was characterized by a cool and wet winter, followed by a warm and dry spring. The summer was marked by intense heatwaves, which led to drought conditions in some regions.
The differences in weather conditions had a significant impact on the flavor profiles of the two vintages. The 2016 wines tend to be richer and fuller-bodied, with higher alcohol levels and lower acidity. The 2017 wines, on the other hand, are often described as more elegant and refined, with higher acidity and lower tannins.
How do the prices of 2016 and 2017 wines compare?
In general, the prices of 2016 wines tend to be higher than those of 2017. This is due to the high demand for the 2016 vintage, which was widely regarded as exceptional. Many top producers and regions reported low yields in 2016, which further contributed to the high prices. In contrast, the 2017 vintage was larger, which has put downward pressure on prices.
However, it’s essential to note that prices can vary greatly depending on the region, producer, and specific wine. Some 2017 wines from top producers may be priced similarly to or even higher than their 2016 counterparts. As with any wine purchase, it’s crucial to research and compare prices before making a decision.
What are some of the best regions for 2016 and 2017 wines?
For the 2016 vintage, some of the top regions include Bordeaux, Burgundy, and the Rhône Valley. These regions excelled in 2016, producing wines that are rich, complex, and age-worthy. In Bordeaux, the left bank appellations like Médoc and Haut-Médoc were particularly successful, while in Burgundy, the Côte de Nuits produced some exceptional wines.
For the 2017 vintage, regions like Tuscany, Piedmont, and the Loire Valley shone. These regions tend to produce more elegant and refined wines, which suited the cooler and more unpredictable weather conditions of 2017. In Tuscany, the Chianti Classico region produced some outstanding wines, while in Piedmont, the Barolo and Barbaresco regions excelled.
How long can I age 2016 and 2017 wines?
The aging potential of 2016 and 2017 wines depends on the specific region, producer, and wine style. Generally, the 2016 wines tend to be more tannic and structured, which makes them more suitable for long-term aging. Many top Bordeaux and Burgundy wines from 2016 can be aged for 10 to 20 years or more.
The 2017 wines, on the other hand, tend to be more elegant and refined, which makes them more approachable in their youth. However, many top wines from 2017 can still be aged for 5 to 10 years or more. It’s essential to research the specific wine and consult with experts before making a decision on aging.
Can I drink 2016 and 2017 wines now, or should I wait?
Both 2016 and 2017 wines can be drunk now, but the ideal drinking window depends on the specific wine and your personal preferences. If you prefer more tannic and structured wines, you may want to wait a few years for the 2016 wines to integrate and mature. On the other hand, if you prefer more elegant and refined wines, the 2017 wines may be more approachable in their youth.
It’s also essential to consider the type of wine and its intended use. For example, if you’re looking for a wine to pair with a special occasion or a rich, fatty meal, a 2016 wine may be more suitable. However, if you’re looking for a wine to drink on its own or with lighter fare, a 2017 wine may be a better choice.
Are there any specific wine styles that are more suitable for 2016 or 2017?
Yes, the 2016 and 2017 vintages tend to suit different wine styles. The 2016 vintage is more suitable for full-bodied, tannic wines with high acidity, such as Bordeaux, Syrah, and Cabernet Sauvignon. These wines tend to have high tannin levels, which benefits from the warm, dry conditions of 2016.
The 2017 vintage, on the other hand, is more suitable for elegant, refined wines with higher acidity, such as Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Gamay. These wines tend to have lower tannin levels and more delicate flavor profiles, which suits the cooler, more unpredictable conditions of 2017.