Merlot Opoka 2020

We experienced a relatively mild winter, providing a favorable start to the new growing season. However, during the flowering of the vines in the last weeks of May, we faced bad weather that lowered the quantities of the 2019 vintage. The hot and very dry summer again contributed to a slightly smaller harvest, but we were pleased with the quality of the grapes. Elevated temperatures in July and August enabled normal berry development, ensuring excellent phenolic maturity. Harvesting occurred through multiple rounds as we carefully sought optimal characteristics for each grape variety.

The growing season in Brda began with mild and dry winter weather. Spring was somewhat cooler, leading to a slightly delayed start of the growing season compared to previous years. Flowering began around June 1st. The cooler temperatures, along with frequent rainfall during late spring and early summer, caused the vines to progress more slowly, but the development was uninterrupted. The summer of 2020 was lovely, characterized by sunny and warm weather, without any concerning heat waves and occasional rain showers that ensured optimal cluster growth and development. Gradual grape ripening took place in excellent conditions, with the right balance of sunlight and occasional rainfall. The harvest began in September and went exceptionally well. As a result, we expect an exceptionally high-quality vintage for both white and red wines.