When considering Burgundy wines, the 2017 vintage was notably more generous in terms of yield and availability compared to the scarce 2016 vintage. While differences in quality were not the most striking distinction between these two years, the varying quantities significantly impacted the market.
Understanding Vintage Distinctions in Burgundy
The quality and character of wine can vary significantly from year to year, a concept known as the "vintage." These differences are primarily influenced by climatic conditions throughout the growing season. For Burgundy, a region renowned for its Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, understanding these vintage variations is key to appreciating the wines.
2016 vs. 2017 Burgundy: A Tale of Two Quantities
The most pronounced difference between Burgundy's 2016 and 2017 vintages was not in their immediate quality, but rather in the quantity of wine produced. This distinction has notable implications for both producers and consumers.
The 2016 Vintage: A Year of Scarcity
The 2016 vintage in Burgundy was characterized by scarcity. Production was significantly lower, yielding approximately 20% less than the regional average. This reduced output was largely due to challenging weather conditions, including frost and hail in some areas, which severely impacted grape yields.
- Implications:
- Rarity: Wines from the 2016 vintage are inherently rarer due to lower production volumes.
- Demand: This scarcity often leads to higher demand and potentially increased prices for these wines.
- Concentration: Lower yields can sometimes result in more concentrated, intense wines, but this isn't universally true across the region.
The 2017 Vintage: A Generous Yield
In stark contrast, the 2017 vintage proved to be much more generous, bringing an above-average yield across Burgundy. Favorable weather conditions contributed to a healthier and more abundant harvest.
- Implications:
- Availability: Wines from the 2017 vintage are more widely available, making them potentially easier to find for consumers.
- Accessibility: Greater supply can sometimes lead to more accessible pricing, although this depends on market demand and specific producer strategies.
- Variety: The larger volume allows for a broader selection of wines from this vintage.
Quality Considerations
While the question of which year was "better" often refers to quality, the most striking difference between Burgundy's 2016 and 2017 vintages was specifically noted not to be immediately in their quality. This suggests that from a quality perspective, the two vintages may offer different styles or nuances rather than one being definitively superior to the other across the board. Both years produced excellent wines, but their primary distinguishing factor lies in their production volume.
Comparative Overview
| Feature | 2016 Burgundy Vintage | 2017 Burgundy Vintage |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Difference | Quantity (Scarcity) | Quantity (Generosity) |
| Yield | 20% less than regional average | Above-average yield |
| Availability | More limited, rarer | More widely available |
| Market Impact | Higher potential prices, collector appeal | Potentially more accessible, broader selection |
| Quality Distinction | Not the most striking difference compared to quantity | Not the most striking difference compared to quantity |
In summary, if "better" implies greater availability and a more generous supply, then 2017 was the superior year for Burgundy wine. If "better" refers to a distinct leap in quality, the information suggests that this was not the primary differentiating factor between these two particular vintages.
