THE VINTAGE OF 1905.

New Zealand Illustrated Sporting & Dramatic Review, Volume XIV, Issue 813, 5 October 1905, Page 24

THE VINTAGE OF 1905.

The “Wine Trade Review” states that jports received from the various winerowing centres appear to indicate that s a whole the European vintage will be imewhat short in quantity, but generily of satisfactory quality. From Boraaux the vineyards are reported to be i splendid condition, having suffered in aly a slight degree from cryptogamic ad other diseases. It is anticipated lat the gathering will be commenced at n early date, and in a general way this regarded as being favourable to qualy. In the champagne country considerable amage has been done during the past ionths by storms and hail, but more jcently the conditions have improved, nd it is anticipated that there will be a nod average yield. A correspondent at eaune states that the vintage in Burandy is likely to be more satisfactory lan was expected a month ago, the vines aving escaped serious damage from the reat heat that was experienced a little me back. From Cognac it is reported that oidium

and mildew have made their appearance in certain places, but for the most part the vines are in excellent condition, and a good crop is anticipated, although it will not approach the great quantity obtained last year. The Oporto correspondent states that heavy thunderstorms have caused serious damage locally, while excessive heat, followed by rains and comparatively cold nights, has told against the proper and regular progress of the grapes, with the result that cryptogamic diseases are attacking the vines, especially in the higher altitudes. The vintage will be late, and, while it is estimated that the Douro will produce only half as much as last year, it is more than probable that, owing to the irregular season, the quality will not be high. A much better report comes from Spain. A correspondent at Jerez-de-la-Frontera states that there is a very good show of grapes, that the vines are singularly free from disease and that if everything goes on favourably for the next few weeks an abundant vintage may be expected. In Germany the quantity will be short—according to some »cports very short indeed—-but there is hope in regard to the quality.