1990 vintage guide for Medoc and Graves

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A very hot, dry year produced some truly magnificent wines

5/5

Weather Conditions

After a very mild winter, spring was cool, but warmed up in May, leading to early flowering. July and August were the driest since 1961, but welcome September showers helped the grapes to ripen to levels similar to 1989, although sugar levels for Cabernet were slightly lower. Yields were high, so many estates green-harvested. Tannins were ripe and acidities sound, so the wines emerged as rich and beautifully balanced.

Best Appellations

Classic Bordeaux should keep very well, although a handful of wines showed some dilution. Outstanding in the Graves too, with Haut-Brion exceptional, and many delicious whites, although acidities levels were not that high and overall reds were better balanced.

Best Producers

In the Médoc Latour is probably the wine of the vintage.