
The 2012 growing season was challenging in Sauternes. The spring was wet and cold, leading to uneven flowering. In June, mildew swept through the region, devastating yields. A sunny, dry reprieve in late July turned into a punishing drought by September. Dry conditions meant botrytis arrived late, pushing back harvest. And when October came, so did the rain. And more rain. Yquem's decision to declassify its harvest has left many producers worried that a shadow has been cast over the wine they battled to produce. Wine Spectator's Suzanne Mustacich explains.
For the full article, check out the new issue of Wine Spectator, on newsstands February 26, 2013.
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