Ryan, since you asked...
The Bill Blatch Preliminary Bordeaux Vintage Report is the "Bible" of Bordeaux. In the words of Jancis Robinson, Bordeaux negociant Bill Blatch (Vintex S. A.) is "arguably the single most informative Bordeaux wine merchant." Released annually just before the UGC tasting week in Bordeaux, this is a play-by-play report of the entire vintage, from just after harvest of the previous vintage, through dormancy and pruning, then the growing cycle , and on through vinification (basically, the year in question plus a few months on either side). Blatch's conclusions, comparisons, and general declarations about the vintage set the tone for UGC Week and the dominoe effect of buzz, scores, and speculation that fuels en primeur (future) sales while keeping prices of the fine wines of Bordeaux at all levels as high as possible for the times.
Here's a link to the 2 most recent reports: 2009 and 2010. 2009 futures are on available for purchase now. 2010 pricing will be announced following the UGC tastings this month. It will be smart to invest in 2009 futures, as many are still available and due the economic woes you can get great 2nd thru 5th growths at decent prices. The wines will not only age well but likely increase in value as they do.
However, looks like 2010 is shaping up to be an interesing vintage as well....how many vintages of the century have we had in Bordeaux so far? 4? hah.
Anyway, these reports are interesting and worth reading/consulting if you are interested in the Bordeaux trade:
2009: "The first decade of the 21st century goes out in a blaze of glory"
2010: "An embarrassingly good vintage"
"You need not hang up the ivy branch over the wine that will sell. —Publius Syrius (c. 43 BC)Maxim 968
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