The new season is on our doorstep. It’s a great time to take a breather and look back at the 2024 vintage. It is very interesting to revisit statistical data obtained from must analysis parameters. Because of our commitment to serve this industry, we find comparative data analysis quite useful to evaluate vintages from one year to another. Already, we are seeing trends. For example, pH values in musts have been steadily increasing since 2019. Results presented here were compiled from close to 400 must samples received in September and October 2024. Maturity monitoring samples were not included in this analysis.
Regarding weather, the spring of 2024 vintage was relatively early and exceptionaly warm. In fact, southern Quebec experienced its second warmest spring with a temperatures 2.9oC above seasonal norms. Spring of 2024 was also marked with heavy rainfall, with precipitation levels nearly 16 mm above average. Fortunately, most producers avoided the spring frosts which had been particularly severe the previous year. The warmth continued into the summer, accompanied by episodes of heavy rain, though overall, the season was pleasant. September was generaly mild, with no early frost, but some vine diseases were reported.
Historical Data on Brix
In regards to Brix results measured in musts, we noticed an overall higher average value compared to what was observed the previous year. Brix levels were similar to those from the 2021 vintage. However, values were still not very high, rarely above 20 Brix, on average,
pH and Titratable Acidity
pH values for hybrid grapes were slightly higher than the previous year, a trend observed since 2019 (data not shown). For vinifera-type grapes, pH values were similar to those recorded in 2023. They seem to be levelling off.
Results from TA analysis in musts remained relatively stable in 2024 with a slight decrease compared to 2023 and 2022. However, they remained higher that the historical low recorded in 2021 which was a very warm and dry year. Average values for Tartaric Acid were a bit higher in vinifera type grapes in 2024. However they were offset by slightly lower values of L-malic acid.
Data from amino nitrogen analysis shows that values are quite stable since 2022. Ammonia levels, on the other hand, were very low in 2023. They have since rebounded to 2022 levels.
Potassium
Potassium levels maintained stability but always with a significant difference between vinifera and hybrid type grapes. Average values for hybrid grapes were 1373 mg/L compared to 1057 mg/L for vinifera grapes. Samples received at our Laboratory rarely show, on average, high potassium values.
To Conclude...
In essence, the 2024 vintage in Quebec was well balanced with moderate sugar levels. Nitrogen levels, particularly ammonia levels, helped ensure good fermentation starts and efficient kinetics—at least for alcoholic fermentations.
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