No frost this year

Well Sunday morning came… 1.5ºC recorded in my courtyard and minimal damage in the vineyard. A few freeze-burned leaves right down at ground level, but nothing to worry about. However… we still have to get through "les saintes glaces" (Saint Mamert, Saint Pancrace and Saint Servais, otherwise known as the 11th 12th and 13th of May). Ask ANY Frenchman and you will be assured that there is ALWAYS a cold snap at les saintes glaces, after which there is never another frost. Of course, this dictum is valid for ALL of France regardless of latitude or altitude… perhaps I am too cynical. In any case, forecast for the 11th is sunny, max 22ºC min 12ºC…