HEAT WAVE

IT WAS a long hot summer in parts of France and both Burgundy and Beaujolais stand to be impacted by the extensive heat wave. It’s estimated that production will be down, although quality is predicted to remain high. Output could fall by as much as a third in Beaujolais, according to Florence Hertaut, wine expert at the agricultural chamber of commerce in the Rhône region. “The dryness has meant that the grapes, the fruit, are especially small,” she said. Christine Monany, from an association representing wine growers in Burgundy, said a “small decline in quantity can be expected due to the heat.” However, Hertaut said the heat has produced “very healthy” vines, as it has dried up any hint of dampness, which can lead to fungus diseases impacting the grapes. Of course, this all translates into smaller vintages with higher price tags.