In the last few months it has been quite warm on the Douro. We were a few degrees above the 1931-1960 average, which is considered a benchmark for the old “normal” temperatures. Due to the warmer autumn and the beginning of winter, the flowering of the almond trees is starting now, 7 weeks earlier than usual.
A few days of sub-zero temperatures in March with a heavy frost, could cause the flowers to die, not turning into fruit, and thus no almonds being produced. We are worried about the almond growers.
But a similar outcome could occur for grapes, as the vine’s cycle will begin in about 4 weeks if temperatures stay above average. And therefore I ask the fairy Godmother for cold days and nights before the bud break in the vineyard.
Cheers,
Oscar
