Château Mouton Rothschild 1997

The year began with dry and warm weather, bringing much higher than normal average temperatures from the end of January and causing the vine to bud at the very beginning of March.

Flowering took place evenly across the different varieties, and mid-flowering was reached between 20 and 24 May. Mid-veraison was reached between 24 July and 1 August, 15 days earlier than usual, though at different times according to the grape variety. August was hot and humid, almost tropical, with 100% humidity on 3 days, but appropriate disease and pest control measures ensured that the crop remained in excellent condition. However, these unusual weather conditions halted the ripening process.

With the grapes ripening unevenly, it was necessary to wait until they reached optimum maturity in order to ensure a high-quality harvest. Fortunately, the weather turned fine again in September.