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Vintage 1997
| Germination: |
10 days earlier |
| Flowering: |
normal development |
| Setting: |
normal development |
| Onset of ripening: |
end of July early |
| Grape-picking: |
began 25 September ended 20 October |
| Rainfall: |
below average |
The year was characterised by an initial phase of frosts which were particularly intense above all in mid-April, compromising the equilibrium of the vines in some areas in the valley. Secondly a violent hailstorm which took place on 4 July in the area of San Pietro in Cariano and Negrar should be recalled.
This caused damage to more than 50% of the vines in the area. Starting from June the progress of the seasons was relatively normal, with little rainfall up to the first week in November, when grape-picking had already been completed and limited differences in temperature between night and day, allowing excellent ripening and health of the grapes, with a balanced or low production on the plant.
The quality was excellent and led to a distinctly larger quantity of grapes being left to rest as compared to 1996. The withering conditions were ideal, given the type of bunch, straggly clustered, and the low nocturnal humidity which did not encourage the formation of mould. Analysis of the grapes immediately demonstrated great harmony and richness of the main components, giving good body and structure to wines of a superior status.
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