1981 vintage guide for Red Rhone

drink now

Patchy quality in Châteauneuf and Gigondas, but the best wines have proved superb and are still drinking well

4/5

Weather Conditions

In the north a warm spring was followed by cool damp weather, but the summer and the early autumn were fine, until the harvest was interrupted by heavy rain before all the grapes were fully ripe. In the south the summer was dry and warm.

Best Appellations

The northern wines reflect slight greenness and are distinctly lean. Condrieu was more successful, but the wines are past their best. In the south, quality was patchy in Châteauneuf and Gigondas, but the best wines have proved superb and are still drinking well.

Best Producers

The top cuvees of Guigal shone in an otherwise lackluster northern vintage. Jaboulet’s La Chapelle was released in the USA but not in Europe.

Excellent Chateauneuf from Beaucastel, Rayas and Mont Redon.