2019 Vintage Report

In our diverse region, Budburst occurred between late September in the warmer areas and mid-October in the more elevated parts, which was about normal. Winter rains had provided good soil moisture for Budburst. Fruit set was generally good.

A very dry January to May led to low disease pressure and even ripening. Cool, dry nights resulted in generally excellent fruit flavours and good acidity. This vintage looks to be a good one. Baumés achieved were generally higher than previous years and fruit quality was excellent with yields average to below average.

Remarkably, harvest times were similar to last vintage, with fine weather and dry conditions. Most sparkling base was harvested by mid-March. Table wines like Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and aromatics were picked mostly by mid to late March. Some of the high altitude vineyards were a little later. The harvest extended into mid April for other reds and late-pick Riesling.