1935

Weather conditions of the 1935 vintage

The 1935 vintage climate provided a dramatic backdrop for Bordeaux. A cold March gave way to vine growth at the end of the month, before being tested by a severe frost on April 3 and 4, one of the worst in decades. May brought further coolness and a light frost, while June alternated between cool, rainy days and a heat wave at the end of the month reaching 37°C. July and August reversed the trend with warm, dry conditions, raising hopes for concentrated wines. However, September changed everything, bringing humidity and a violent storm on the 3rd, followed by persistent rain that delayed the harvest until September 30. Despite these trials, the sunny summer months laid the foundation for a vintage that Bordeaux wine lovers still celebrate for its tenacity and unexpected appeal.

Left bank

On the left bank, the 1935 Bordeaux vintage demonstrated resilience in the face of adversity. The Médoc and Graves regions bore the full brunt of the April frost, with some estates losing up to three-quarters of their harvest. Yet the hot, dry summer allowed the surviving vines to produce a substantial yield of red wines of uneven but intriguing quality. These 1935 Bordeaux reds, though less celebrated than the preceding 1934 vintage, were praised for surpassing the disappointing offerings of 1931 and 1932. A notable example, the Domaine de Chevalier 1935, impressed tasters with its drinkability decades later, suggesting the understated potential of this vintage. For collectors seeking left bank treasures, this vintage offers a unique glimpse into the enduring spirit of Bordeaux.

Right bank

The right bank fared more kindly in 1935, escaping the worst of the damage caused by the early frost that struck the left bank. However, a violent storm in September brought severe hail to Saint-Émilion, leaving the vines of estates such as Cheval Blanc battered. Despite this setback, the 1935 Bordeaux vintage on the right bank produced an abundant harvest with wines that held their own. The warm summer months lent depth to these reds, making them a compelling choice for those exploring vintage wine assessments from this period. Buyers wishing to acquire right bank Bordeaux 1935 will discover a vintage that combines abundance and character, testament to the region's ability to thrive under pressure.

Sauternes: Sweet wines of the 1935 vintage

In Sauternes, the 1935 vintage gave rise to sweet wines that stand out as rare gems. The harvest began on September 25, following heavy rainfall of 90 mm at the end of August that triggered botrytis, the noble rot essential to these sweet wines. Although the persistent rains of September tempered expectations after the outstanding 1934, the sweet wines of Bordeaux 1935 earned a reputation as "rather good." Bottled just before the outbreak of the war, these wines are today extremely rare, which adds to their appeal. Tasting notes for a Filhot 1935 reveal a subtle, understated charm, making this vintage a delight for collectors in search of the finest sweet Bordeaux wines.

Critics' reviews

Critics of the era offered measured but optimistic assessments of the 1935 Bordeaux vintage. The owner of Latour, the Comte de Beaumont, predicted that the 1935 would one day hold "a very honorable place" among connoisseurs' favorites, a nod to its potential longevity. Comparisons with the 1922 vintage emerged, likely due to the benevolent climate of July and August, which reinforced the structure of the wines. Although merchants noted slow sales amid persistent stocks of 1934 and a post-Depression market, the vintage nevertheless outperformed its immediate predecessors. Modern tastings, such as that of the Domaine de Chevalier 1935 — just about drinkable — confirm its enduring appeal, earning it quiet applause among wine enthusiasts.

Why buy 1935 Bordeaux wines?

Why buy Bordeaux 1935? This vintage offers a captivating blend of history, rarity, and resilience that appeals to both collectors and casual enthusiasts. The abundant harvest means there is still a chance to acquire a bottle, while its uneven yet surprising quality makes it a compelling conversation piece. For Sauternes lovers, the rare botrytis-marked sweet wines are not to be missed. The left bank reds bring a touch of courage and grace, while the right bank offerings display a depth born of a tumultuous year. Perfect for gifting or savoring, the 1935 Bordeaux vintage offers a taste of a bygone era at a price that reflects its understated status. Buy Bordeaux 1935 today and discover a story of triumph over adversity.