After a cold, dry start to the year, a change in the weather pattern brought higher-than-average temperatures and rainfall from February. Budding took place at the end of March, and the mild weather persisted through April. May and June were very warm, with average rainfall; a number of storms were recorded in May. The first flowers appeared on 23 May and mid-flowering was observed between 5 – 7 June, in line with the average over the last thirty years. Rapid and even flowering augured well for the rest of the vegetation cycle. The first fortnight of July, cool and wet, was followed by a prolonged period of fine weather. The wind dried out the vines and veraison took place earlier than usual. A generally reliable indicator of future quality, the mid-veraison point was noted 7 to 8 days earlier than average for Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon (4 and 5 August respectively, rather than 11 and 13), and two days earlier than average for Cabernet Franc (12 August rather than 14). A few very hot days in late July and early August interrupted the growth of the vine, helping to concentrate sugar and phenolics in the berries. The fine weather continued in September; some light rain ensured that the crop reached full maturity while remaining in excellent condition. The harvest took place in good conditions, with plenty of sun during the day. The grapes were healthy, well-coloured, tannic and full of flavour.