Spraying continues in the vineyards. The vines are healthy but delayed in their development due to unusual weather conditions. A late harvest is almost certain. However, experts tell me it’s still possible for them to ‘catch up’ should the weather settle into its more usual summer pattern.

Winds have been keeping temperatures down. We have a variety of winds here. They all have names. The Tramontane blows from the north; its cousin the Tarral blows from the north-west. Both are powerful; sometimes it can feel as if they’re arguing with one another. They whistle through the vines and make the support wires sing like a ghostly choir.

(There goes the romantic in me coming out again!)

Notwithstanding all this wind and cooler temperatures, Languedoc looks fantastic this month. The light is an artist’s dream: it’s as if the cooler air is cleaner, fresher than usual. Colours are brighter. Evenings are superb.

The contrast of green foliage and red soil is perfectly complementary – exact opposites on an artist’s colour wheel. That’s what makes it so satisfying.

Our Mademoiselle Merlot is looking perky. Here she is.

Vine leaves shade this bunch of baby grapes.

Apart from some wind damage to the top growth, the vines are healthy.

Growers expect a good crop even if it is a little late.

In the vineyard across the lane, the Chardonnay is well ahead. Compare the baby grapes.

I’m licking my lips already. Make space in the fridge! These beauties are best chilled.

Walking through the vineyards is such a pleasure. Each month there’s something different to see.

Those dark trees along the lanes sometimes have a surprise for you. Maybe they’re almonds or figs. Maybe they are pomegranates.

Each flower will become a bright orange pomegranate. What a wonderful picture they make!

Join me next week for the Wednesday Vine watch report. Who knows what surprises we’ll have in store?

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