In the past couple of weeks we've had really hot weather in Champagne and this has inevitably lead to some spectacular thunderstorms and, unfortunately, to hail too.

Drinks Bulletin reports that according to the CIVC some 300 hectares of vines have been badly affected.

You can read more here

http://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2013/08/hail-destroys-300-hectares-in-champagne/

Take a look at this picture, taken today, of the windmill at Verzenay and compare it to the picture in the Drinks Business article. You'll see that the paddles have been removed. Is this because of the store or just for routine maintenance?  

I'll keep you updated as the weeks and months to this year's harvest unfold