An early bud break was followed by spring frosts that caused only limited damage in certain areas, but sufficiently severe on the night of 29 April to wipe out 75 per cent of newly emerging buds in the areas of Bouzy, Ambonnay and Trépail.
The vines were slow to flower but the incidence of coulure and millerandage was low and restricted to the most precocious parcels. These areas also showed signs of berry moth and grape-worm damage. The vineyard as a whole experienced the worst outbreak of Rotbrenner in its history, which caused substantial losses in yield. Grey mould, on the other hand, was seen only in the Montagne de Reims sector and had no effect on a crop that was notable for its tight clusters.
Harvesting commenced early on 8 September, delivering a crop that was exceptional in every respect with average yields of 4,400 kg/ha. The average potential alcohol content was 10.5% with acidity of 6.5g/l H²SO4.
The year 1945 was an exceptional vintage, producing elegant wines with a fine vinosity.
Source: Comité Interprofessionnel du Vin de Champagne/Comité Champagne, Epemay. Analysis conducted by the AVC-CIVC technical and enological services.