The véraison started slowly at the end of last week in the early sectors of Hautvillers and Aÿ. At this stage the light coloring of grapes points towards a slower fruit maturation than anticipated, all related to relatively low sunlight and water stress. I suspect we will benefit from several rain showers occurring this week as they should speed up the process. Sanitary conditions are overall very good, with no mildew or rot, however oidium unfortunately made its presence felt in some Chardonnay sites.
