On the slopes of the Grand Cru Mandelberg descending towards Colmar, a freezing night fell, putting the tenacity of the winegrowers to the test. From the vineyards of Beblenheim, Bennwihr and Mittelwihr emerges a narrative of solidarity and resilience in the face of the vagaries of the weather, as temperatures threaten to plunge the fragile buds into eternal sleep.

Thibault Specht, a winemaker in Mittelwihr, embodies the fierce determination that drives the men and women of the sector. Surrounded by misty hills and already awake buds, it stands on the front lines of the battle against the spring frost. But he's not alone. A hundred other winemakers join him in a night watch, scrutinizing the thermometers with feverish attention.

The night is long and painful. The threat of frost hangs like a sword of Damocles over the precious vines. Every degree less is a deadly threat to tender buds. But the winemakers are not giving up. Armed with pitchforks, water but also enormous determination, they take turns tirelessly, scouring the dark vineyard to check the thermometers, ready to act at the slightest alarm.

Cooperation is essential. In Beblenheim, Bennwihr and Mittelwihr, the winegrowers have set up a common protocol. From 12:30 a.m., teams are deployed in the vineyards, monitoring temperatures with unfailing vigilance. If frost threatens, they are ready to act, united in their fight to protect their crops.

Yet, despite their best efforts, nature remains unpredictable. The risks are great, the stakes considerable. That night, temperatures varied randomly between sectors. On the Hardt plains, the thermometer dropped to -4°C, while on the slopes and foothills of Bennwihr and Mittelwihr it dropped to -1.5°C, creating a mosaic of low and unpredictable temperatures.

At around 4 or 5 a.m., the first straw bale fires were lit, but their effectiveness was compromised by a capricious wind, making the fight against frost even more difficult.

Unfortunately, even with the efforts made and the lighting of the damp straw bales to create a protective smoke screen, not all crops could be saved. The winegrowers know that in the face of the forecast weather conditions, new operations will be necessary to preserve what can still be preserved.

However, even in the face of adversity, the spirit of resilience persists. The winemakers of Beblenheim, Bennwihr and Mittelwihr have always been able to adapt to the challenges of nature, leveraging their know-how and unwavering solidarity to overcome obstacles. Tonight, as frost threatens their precious crops, they remain united in their struggle, a testament to the strength and determination of this community.