Dear Dr. Wen,

I would like to thank you for your thoughtful comments. Both referees had major concerns with the experiment design (ref 2) and statistical treatment of the GNIP data (ref 1). They also asked for much additional information and a more comprehensive interpretation of the results (ref 1). Considering their manuscript rating and recommendation, major revisions are necessary before the manuscript can be accepted for final publication in CoP. However, based on your response to their comments it seems that you are able to address most of their requests. Last but not least, please note that both referees will review the revised version.

Best wishes
Dominik Fleitmann

Dear Dr. Wen,

I would like to thank you for your careful revisions of your manuscript. Based on your response to the concerns raised by the referees and the revisions, your manuscript is now suitable for publication in Climate of the Past.

Best wishes
Dominik Fleitmann