In my expert opinion as a sommelier and brewer, I must say that 2010 was not a particularly good year for Champagne. The weather conditions during that year were far from ideal for grape cultivation, leading to significant challenges for vintners.
One of the main issues faced by Champagne producers in 2010 was the heavy rainfall that occurred over a two-day period in mid-August. This sudden downpour resulted in the loss of a substantial portion of the crop. Two months' worth of rain in just two days is a staggering amount, and the vines simply couldn't handle the excess moisture. This excessive rainfall led to a host of problems that affected the quality of the grapes and ultimately the resulting wine.
One of the most significant consequences of the heavy rain was the invasion of botrytis, also known as gray mold. Botrytis is a fungal disease that thrives in damp conditions, and it can wreak havoc on grapevines. The mold penetrates the grape skins, causing them to rot and deteriorate. This not only affects the taste and aroma of the wine but also reduces the overall yield of usable grapes for production.
The presence of botrytis and rot in the grapes resulted in a significant reduction in the quality of the harvest. Grapes affected by botrytis tend to produce wines with off flavors and a lack of freshness. The mold can impart musty, earthy, or even rotten aromas and flavors to the wine, which are highly undesirable in Champagne.
Furthermore, the loss of a considerable portion of the crop meant that vintners had fewer grapes to work with. This scarcity of grapes decreased the overall production of Champagne in 2010, making it a challenging year for the industry as a whole.
As a sommelier and brewer, I have personally tasted and evaluated several Champagnes from the 2010 vintage, and I must say that they were generally disappointing. The wines lacked the usual vibrancy, elegance, and finesse that Champagne is renowned for. Instead, they exhibited muted flavors, flat acidity, and a lack of complexity.
It is important to note, however, that while 2010 may not have been a stellar year for Champagne, there are still some exceptional cuvées that managed to rise above the challenges of the vintage. Some producers, through meticulous vineyard management and selective harvesting, were able to salvage a small quantity of high-quality grapes and produce outstanding wines. These exceptional Champagnes are a testament to the skill and dedication of the winemakers.
2010 was not a standout year for Champagne due to the adverse weather conditions and the subsequent invasion of botrytis and rot. The heavy rainfall and resulting grape damage led to a decrease in the overall quantity and quality of the harvest. While there are a few exceptional Champagnes from this vintage, they are the exception rather than the norm. As a sommelier and brewer, I would generally advise seeking out other vintages for a more satisfying Champagne experience.