The 1992 viticultural year was marked by the near drought conditions that prevailed during the early months of the year. Producers and shippers became anxious as the vines must survive the long dry summer by drawing on the underground moisture created by the winter rains. Fortunately May and June produced more than average rainfall and August was not excessively hot. This was a relief as in many areas, vines were already showing signs of suffering from lack of water. A tremendous thunderstorm broke over the Upper Douro on 7th and 8th August, and this most welcome rain transformed the grapes. Within a short time the grapes had swollen and sugar readings improved. Picking at Vesuvio took place between Monday 14th and Thursday 24th September.