2017

The 2017 vintage was marked by varied climatic conditions across the world's top wine regions, influencing the production of exceptional wines in some areas while posing challenges in others. Here's a detailed overview of the 2017 vintage and the best wines to buy for your collection.

Bordeaux 2017:

The 2017 vintage in Bordeaux was complicated by severe spring frosts, which impacted a significant portion of the crop, particularly in Bordeaux Supérieur and the Médoc regions, leading to a loss of around 40% of the harvest. However, the surviving wines are balanced and elegant. The red wines of Bordeaux 2017 are lighter compared to previous years, offering a good structure with aromas of black fruits (blackcurrant, blackberry) and fine tannins. The white wines, especially from Pessac-Léognan and Graves, were particularly successful, showcasing excellent acidity and freshness. The best grand crus from Bordeaux 2017, such as those from Saint-Émilion and Médoc, age well and can be enjoyed from 5 to 15 years.

Burgundy 2017:

The 2017 vintage in Burgundy was very favorable, especially for white wines. The Côte de Beaune and Chablis produced wines of great finesse, with a distinct minerality, fresh acidity, and aromas of white fruits and flowers. This vintage surpassed 2016 and 2015 in terms of quality for whites, particularly in Chablis, where the wines are exceptionally pure. The red wines in Burgundy, while younger than those from previous vintages, are already very enjoyable, with aromas of fresh red fruits, violet, and well-balanced structure. The Côte Chalonnaise also excelled, especially in Givry and Rully, where the reds were particularly successful. These wines can be kept between 10 to 25 years, depending on the appellation and style.

Rhône Valley 2017:

The Rhône Valley experienced a relatively mild and balanced year, favoring the production of rich, complex red wines. Châteauneuf-du-Pape wines showed great depth, with beautiful concentration of black fruits, spices, and floral aromas. Likewise, the Côte-Rôtie wines are known for their complex aromas of black fruits, licorice, and violet. The white wines from the region, particularly from Condrieu, were perfectly balanced, offering fresh floral notes and a silky texture. Most wines from the Rhône Valley age well, with a potential of 10 to 20 years.

California 2017:

The Napa Valley produced powerful and concentrated Cabernet Sauvignon wines in 2017, which stand out with aromas of black fruits, chocolate, coffee, and occasionally tobacco. This vintage also favored highly structured wines, with great length and aging potential, ranging from 15 to 25 years. Other regions in California, such as Sonoma, produced elegant and balanced wines, particularly Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from the Russian River Valley.

Tuscany 2017:

In Tuscany, the Brunello di Montalcino wines were particularly successful, offering elegance and concentration. The 2017 vintage is known for aromas of cherry, plum, and spices, with a great balance of acidity. Chianti Classico also performed well, producing harmonious, fruity wines with a good structure. These wines can age between 10 and 20 years, making them excellent for long-term enjoyment.

Australia 2017:

In Australia, the Shiraz from the Barossa Valley remained powerful, concentrated, and marked by aromas of black fruits, licorice, and pepper. The Cabernet Sauvignon wines from Margaret River and Coonawarra also performed very well, producing elegant, balanced wines with aging potential ranging from 10 to 25 years, depending on the type of wine.

Best Wines to Buy from 2017:

1. Bordeaux:
   • Château Margaux, Pauillac, Château Haut-Brion
2. Burgundy:
   • Domaine de la Romanée-Conti, Domaine Leflaive, Domaine Jean Grivot
3. Rhône Valley:
   • Château de Beaucastel (Châteauneuf-du-Pape), Domaine Jean-Luc Colombo (Côte-Rôtie)
4. California:
   • Opus One, Silver Oak (Cabernet Sauvignon), Kistler (Chardonnay)
5. Tuscany:
   • Brunello di Montalcino by Casanova di Neri, Chianti Classico by Castello di Ama
6. Australia:
   • Penfolds Grange, Henschke Hill of Grace

These 2017 wines are long-term investments and continue to improve with age, offering evolving flavors and complexities. If you're looking to buy wines from 2017, you’ll find excellent choices in these regions. The grand cru wines from this vintage are perfect additions to your cellar and will provide a unique tasting experience over the years.