Nice surprises from the rainy gloom of '14

THE early reports on the 2014 vintage through much of Europe were not optimistic: rain, lots of it. In some places, it lasted through the spring. In parts of Italy, it carried on through much of the growing season.

Farmers depend on rain - when it comes at the right time and in the right amount to keep their vines healthy. But too much, combined with warm temperatures and plenty of humidity, can lead to mildew, fungus and rot. Yields can be diminished and the quality of the wines can be harmed.

Yet to the surprise of many people, the wines from some areas where gloom was deepest have turned out surprisingly well.