1939

Weather Conditions for the 1939 Vintage

The 1939 growing season in Bordeaux unfolded against a backdrop of unpredictable weather. A cold, hesitant spring delayed budbreak, with shoots only appearing in early April. May brought unfavorable conditions, keeping temperatures low, but a warming trend in June triggered flowering around the 3rd. July introduced warmth and rain, leading to mildew challenges, while August saw persistent rainfall that prolonged veraison. When war broke out on September 3, stormy yet warm weather prevailed. The harvest began late, on October 2, under rainy skies and cool northerly winds, but conditions stabilized enough to yield an abundant crop. Despite these adversities, the harvest weather allowed the 1939 Bordeaux vintage to retain its fragrant, fruity essence—a quality that still shines through today.

Left Bank

On Bordeaux's Left Bank, the 1939 vintage produced red wines that embody elegance rather than power. These wines, including notable bottlings like the 1939 Rauzan-Ségla, display a light body with fine, well-evolved bouquets. While some bottles may show signs of drying out if not properly cellared, well-preserved examples offer delicate freshness and subtle fruity notes that appeal to lovers of classic Bordeaux. The high yield of the harvest ensured abundant production, and the reds from this region remain harmonious and balanced. For collectors or enthusiasts looking to explore 1939 Bordeaux vintage ratings, the Left Bank offers a refined experience that reflects the region's ability to create beauty in a challenging year.

Right Bank

In 1939, Bordeaux's Right Bank produced red wines that favored freshness and a pronounced fruit appeal. A remarkable example such as the 1939 Cheval White, bottled by the prestigious négociant Mähler-Besse, highlights the potential of this vintage with its fragrant profile and graceful aging. Despite a modest production due to wartime disruptions, these wines have matured admirably, retaining a distinctly fruity character that delights the palate. The Right Bank's contribution to the 1939 Bordeaux vintage proves that even in average years, this region can produce bottles of lasting charm. For those looking to buy 1939 Bordeaux, the Right Bank offers a compelling case with its well-balanced, approachable reds.

Sauternes: Sweet Wines of the 1939 Vintage

In Sauternes, 1939 stands out as a triumph for lovers of sweet wines. Despite a cool growing season marked by a destructive frost on June 11 and above-average rainfall in August, the region produced luscious, sweet, and fruity wines that rank among the vintage's finest achievements. Château d'Yquem delivered a flamboyant expression, with a 2016 tasting revealing its delightful depth, even in an atypical year. Château Suduiraut also excelled, crafting harmonious wines that remain a delight today. With harvesting having begun around September 20, Sauternes benefited from dry picking conditions, resulting in high-quality bottles that, while occasionally uneven, often age magnificently. For those researching vintage wine ratings, the 1939 Sauternes vintage is a must-explore category.

Critics' Reviews

Critics have long appreciated the understated charm of the 1939 Bordeaux vintage. Tastings of the 1939 Rauzan-Ségla at the estate revealed a wine with a fine, mature bouquet, while the 1939 Cheval White impressed at a dinner hosted by Berry Bros. & Rudd, showcasing its fragrant freshness. Sauternes offerings, notably a 1939 Yquem tasted in Beaune, received high praise for their utterly delicious character, outperforming a less fortunate 1939 Climens. Critics consistently highlight the vintage's ability to age gracefully, with the reds offering fruity elegance and the Sauternes showing sweet harmony. These observations confirm the 1939 Bordeaux vintage as a quiet success, perfect for those consulting vintage wine ratings online.

Why Buy 1939 Bordeaux Wines?

Why should you buy 1939 Bordeaux? This vintage captures a moment in history, combining the resilience of Bordeaux winemakers with the timeless appeal of its wines. The reds, light yet fragrant, offer a fresh and fruity palate that has aged surprisingly well, making them an accessible choice for both casual drinkers and collectors alike. Sauternes, with its exceptional sweet wines, elevates the vintage to a level of excellence that rivals more celebrated years. Whether you are drawn to the harmonious reds of the Left and Right Banks or the luscious delights of Sauternes, the 1939 Bordeaux vintage delivers unique character at an excellent value. Add a bottle of this historic Bordeaux wine to your collection today and savor a sip of 1939's enduring legacy.