2008

Vintage Quality: Good

Current Status: Ready to drink

The 2008 vintage in Bordeaux was good but did not reach the grandeur of other vintages. The beginning of the year brought a mild winter and cool, wet spring, which caused rot and disease. Despite the cool and wet summer, mid-September finally brought wonderful weather with warm days and refreshing nights. Although there were a few light showers, the late improvement in weather allowed for a relaxed harvest, where producers could pick at their discretion.

The harvest was smaller than usual because some Merlot berries did not reach full phenolic ripeness, but it was mostly successful. Some Cabernet Sauvignon also suffered from a slightly green character with unripe tannins. However, the extended growing season allowed most grapes to reach full ripeness, and many producers harvested into October, some in Saint-Émilion even in early November.

The resulting wines were generally very good. The wines generally reflected the cooler character of the vintage with refined aromas, good acidity, and elegant structure. However, some wines suffered from awkward tannins, which have undoubtedly softened with age. Most agree that the star of the vintage was the Right Bank, with Pomerol producing some great examples.

The prices for the 2008 vintage were lowered due to the global recession, but Lafite Rothschild raised the price due to the Chinese respect for the number 8. Nevertheless, the vintage remains one of the most accessible in Bordeaux. It is a good year for buying, with many wines now at their optimal drinking time.