Reference
Buntgen, U., Frank, D.C., Nievergelt, D. and Esper, J. 2006. Summer temperature variations in the European Alps, A.D. 755-2004. Journal of Climate 19: 5606-5623.
Description
The authors developed an annually-resolved mean summer (June-September) temperature record for the European Alps (46.3°N, 7.8°E), covering the period AD 755-2004 and based on 180 recent and historic larch (Larix decidua Mill.) maximum latewood density series, using the regional curve standardization method that preserves interannual to multi-centennial temperature-related variations. In the words of the researchers, this work revealed "warmth during medieval and recent times, and cold in between." As best we can determine from the graphical presentation of their results, the MWP occurred between 1150 and 1275 AD. Peak warmth during this interval (~ 1200 AD) was approximately equivalent to that of the last few years of the record, which extended through 2004.