2008 will remain in the memory as a year of particularly changeable weather. After a cool and wet spring (the temperature fell to around 0° C on 7 April), the weather turned more seasonal in June, but the vegetation cycle was running late. July was sunny and dry but the summer continued with a dull August, increasing the need for careful vineyard supervision. However, rainfall in August was in line with the average; there was no water surplus and the water table remained at a level comparable with that of recent years. A lack of sunshine in the first half of September heralded a difficult vintage. Fortunately, a magnificent Indian summer that began on 14 September and lasted until 20 October completely reversed the situation. Such excellent conditions before the harvest increased the alcoholic strength and enabled the grapes to achieve a very fine state of phenolic maturity. Picking was delayed so that the grapes could ripen fully. The harvest took place between 22 and 30 September, the crop being in excellent condition. Patience was needed for the 2008 harvest, and rigorous attention from vine to vinification. A quite unusual vintage, it has produced wines that nevertheless hold out the promise of remarkable quality.